Oct. 26—GRAND FORKS — The NHL has suspended Shane Pinto for 41 games for “activities related to sports wagering,” the league said Thursday morning.
The league said its investigation “found no evidence that Pinto made any wagers on NHL games,” but did not elaborate beyond that.
The NHL said it considers the matter closed unless new information emerges.
The league also said it will have no further comment.
“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,” Pinto said in a statement. “I take full responsibility for my actions and look forward to getting back on the ice with my team.”
The former UND center is currently a restricted free agent with the Ottawa Senators. Because of the number of NHL games played, he’s not able to sign with any other team.
Last season, Pinto played 82 games for Ottawa, scoring 20 goals and tallying 35 points.
“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.”
In all, Pinto has played 99 NHL games across three seasons, tallying 43 points.
“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,” the Senators said.
Pinto played for UND from 2019-21, leading the Fighting Hawks to back-to-back Penrose Cups as National Collegiate Hockey Conference regular-season champions.
As a sophomore, he was named the NCHC’s MVP, forward of the year and defensive forward of the year.
The Senators selected Pinto with the No. 32 overall pick in 2019.
