NHL Suspends Ottawa Senators’ Shane Pinto for Sports Betting Violation

The NHL handed out its first sports betting suspension since the 1940s last week. They announced that Ottawa Senators forward Shane Pinto will receive a 41-game ban for “activities relating to sports wagering”. While the details have been scarce, the league confirmed they did not find any evidence that he wagered on games, meaning he likely was supplying information for other bettors. 

“I want to apologize to the National Hockey League, the Ottawa Senators, my teammates, the fans and the city of Ottawa, and most importantly, my family,” Shane Pinto said in a statement about the ban. “I take full responsibility for my actions and look forward to getting back on the ice with my team.”

This represents the first time the NHL has handed down a sports betting suspension in modern history. The league investigated Evander Kane a few years ago, but no evidence surfaced, so no ban was handed down. Many other major sports leagues in the US have been dealing with an influx of violations over the last few years, and the NHL now joins them.

Shane Pinto is not planning to appeal the suspension. He has issued a public apology to the league, fans, and his Ontario-based team.

Suspension Came Amid Contract Holdout

What makes this sports betting scandal so unique is that it happened while Shane Pinto was sitting out. He has been in the midst of a contract battle with the Senators, resulting in him missing the beginning of the 2023 season. The battle between the two sides had gotten ugly, but the team has stated they will continue to support the young star.

“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,” the Senators said in a statement. “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.”