In a surprising turn of events, Ottawa Senators forward Shane Pinto has been hit with a 41-game suspension for violating the NHL’s gambling policy. This unprecedented decision makes Pinto the first modern NHL player to be banned for sports gambling.
The league’s investigation revealed that Pinto engaged in activities related to sports wagering, although there is no evidence to suggest that he bet on NHL games. The specifics of Pinto’s actions and how he was caught have not been disclosed.
Expressing remorse for his actions, Pinto issued a statement apologizing to the National Hockey League, the Ottawa Senators, his teammates, the fans, the city of Ottawa, and, most importantly, his family. He took full responsibility for his actions and expressed his eagerness to return to the ice with his team.
Pinto has chosen not to appeal the suspension, as part of an agreement reached between the league, the player, and the NHL Players’ Association. The NHL considers the matter closed, unless new information emerges.
During a press conference, Coach D.J. Smith assured reporters that the Senators would support Pinto and welcome him back when he becomes eligible to return. Pinto’s eligibility will be in the middle of this season, once he signs a contract. Currently, he is an unsigned restricted free agent, and this suspension sheds light on the reason behind the delay in securing a deal.
The Ottawa Senators released a statement acknowledging Pinto’s value to the team and describing him as an intelligent young man who made regrettable choices leading to his suspension. The organization fully supports the NHL’s rules on gambling and remains committed to helping Pinto address his issues and become a positive contributor to the community.
Pinto’s suspension marks a significant moment in professional sports, as he becomes the first modern NHL player to be banned for gambling. In recent years, several NFL players, including Calvin Ridley, have faced similar suspensions for their involvement in sports betting. While the NBA and Major League Baseball have not announced any recent gambling punishments, the issue of gambling remains a growing concern in college sports.
Since the U.S. Supreme Court legalized sports wagering in 2018, Americans have reportedly wagered over $220 billion on sports. The NHL/NHLPA collective bargaining agreement strictly prohibits gambling on any NHL game, and teams can even prohibit employees from participating in fantasy leagues for money.
Interestingly, the Ottawa Senators made history in 2021 by becoming the first team to feature a gambling-related sponsor on their helmets. Betway, an international gambling company, now adorns the Senators’ home helmets.
It is worth noting that this is not the first time the NHL has investigated a player for gambling. Two years ago, Evander Kane faced allegations of betting on NHL games, including those involving his own team. However, the investigation found no evidence to support these claims.
Prior to Pinto, the last NHL players to be suspended for gambling were Billy Taylor, Don Gallinger, and Babe Pratt in the 1940s.
This shocking suspension serves as a reminder of the NHL’s strict stance against gambling and the consequences that players face when they violate the league’s policies. As the hockey community processes this unprecedented event, all eyes will be on Shane Pinto’s journey to redemption and his eventual return to the ice.