The National Hockey League (NHL) has suspended Ottawa Senators player Shane Pinto for 41 games for violating the league’s sports betting rules. The announcement was made on Thursday.
The league said it found no evidence that Pinto bet on NHL games.
Acceptance of punishment and apology
The 22-year-old accepted the punishment.
“I apologize to the National Hockey League, the Ottawa Senators, my teammates, the fans and the city of Ottawa, and most importantly my family,” Pinto said in a statement released by the team.
“I take full responsibility for my actions and look forward to returning to the ice with my team.”
The Senators, who started the season with 3 wins and 3 losses, will not be able to count on the player in the next matches.
After the league completed its investigation, it informed the team of additional conditions.
Senators support and commitment to NFL sports betting rules
“Shane is a valued member of our hockey club. An engaging, intelligent young man who made poor decisions that resulted in a suspension by the National Hockey League. We know he is sorry for his mistakes,” the Senators said.
The Ottawa Senators fully support the NHL rules on betting. Although saddened to learn of this issue, the entire organization remains committed to Shane. And, we will work together to do whatever is necessary to provide the support so he can solve his problems 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.”
This season, Pinto, selected by Ottawa in the second round of the 2019 NHL Draft, has not played. He scored 20 goals and had 15 assists with the Senators last season as a rookie.
