LATEST | NHL issues an official statement regarding Senators' Shane Pinto: Awarded a Lengthy suspension

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Cooper Godin
October 26, 2023 (8:46)

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On Thursday morning, some big news broke in hockey regarding Ottawa Senators restricted free-agent forward Shane Pinto.

According to Sportsnet, Shane Pinto has been suspended for 41 games by the National Hockey League for sports betting.

"Shane Pinto will be suspended for 41 games after violating NHL gambling rules, multiple sources told Sportsnet."

Because Pinto is still a free agent, the Senators will likely need to sign him for him to serve his suspension, with Bruce Garrioch reporting that the team has rescinded all contract offers and that the 22-year-old may have to accept his qualifying offer.

"I Am told the #Sens have rescinded all previous offers, and Pinto may have to sign his QO to begin serving the suspension officially." Garrioch said.

This is the first time that the National Hockey League has handed out a suspension for gambling in the online betting era, and it's not entirely shocking to see them come down hard on Pinto to set a precedent.

Pinto became a restricted free agent this summer; because of Ottawa's cap situation, he's been unable to sign a new deal, further complicating things if he's forced to sign a contract to begin his suspension. As an RFA, Pinto must sign by December 1st to play in the NHL this season.