Ottawa Senators center Shane Pinto was suspended for 41 games on Thursday by the NHL for violating the league’s gambling rules, becoming the first player in modern league history to get a half-season suspension for wagering.
But per the NHL’s statement, the league found no evidence that he actually wagered on NHL games, which might seem strange given that it’s a gambling suspension. But there are reports on what may have actually led to the situation making headlines everywhere.
With some confusion surrounding the matter by fans on social media, here’s everything we know about the situation that’s been reported so far:
Who is Shane Pinto?
(Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports)
Pinto is currently a 22-year-old restricted free agent center with the Ottawa Senators. He was drafted 32nd overall by the Senators in the 2019 NHL Draft and played in all 82 games last season for Ottawa, scoring 20 goals. He had not played a game for the Senators so far this season while awaiting a new contract as a restricted free agent.
Pinto released a statement on Thursday, saying, “I want to apologize to the National Hockey League, the Ottawa Senators, my teammates, the fans and city of Ottawa and most importantly my family. I take full responsibility for my actions and look forward to getting back on the ice with my team.”
How long is the suspension?
(Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports)
The NHL announced on Thursday morning in a statement, “The National Hockey League announced today that it has suspended NHL Player Shane Pinto for 41 games for activities relating to sports wagering. The League’s investigation found no evidence that Pinto made any wagers on NHL games.”
Pinto’s suspension begins Thursday night, even though he isn’t signed with the team.
It is the first suspension for gambling in the NHL since widespread legalization of sports betting was allowed by the Supreme Court in 2018.
What did Pinto do to earn the suspension?
The NHL memo makes it apparent that Pinto did not wager on NHL games. The NHL/NHLPA collective bargaining agreement does allow players to wager on non-NHL events.
The Senators released a statement on Thursday:
“We were made aware of the National Hockey League investigation into this matter and additional information was made available to the club upon the completion of the league’s investigation yesterday.
Shane is a valued member of our hockey club; an engaging, intelligent young man who made poor decisions that have resulted in a suspension by the National Hockey League. We know he is remorseful for his mistakes.
The Ottawa Senators fully support the NHL’s rules on gambling. While saddened to learn of this issue, the entire organization remains committed to Shane and will work together to do what is necessary to help provide the support to allow him to address his issues and become a strong contributor to our community.
When the time is right and with the league’s blessing, we will welcome him back to the organization and embrace him as one of our own.”
One report says what could have triggered the violaton
Per Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff:
Sources told Daily Faceoff that the league’s investigation centered around a sweep of gambling partners that revealed a Pinto connection to a third-party bettor.
What that could mean? We may find out, with further details reportedly coming later on Thursday.
