The NHL has issued an unprecedented 41-game suspension for Shane Pinto for activities relating to sports wagering, the first suspension for gambling in hockey in 75 years. Pinto, currently without a contract after unsuccessful offseason negotiations, would be eligible to return on January 21, 2024. The Senators forward had 35 points (20G / 15A) in 82 games last season.
Pinto picked up an injury on Saturday, missed Sunday's practice and is questionable to play Monday. The Senators are optimistic he will play, but expect Dylan Gambrell to replace him on the third line if he can't play.
Pinto underwent surgery to repair the dislocation he suffered on November 13th and there is no timetable for his return.
Pinto was originally listed as a game-time decision but has been cleared to play tonight vs. the Penguins. Pinto, who will centre the second line, has one assist in four games this year.
Pinto has missed the last nine games with an upper-body injury but will be a game-time decision vs. the Penguins. Pinto was on the Senators' second line in the morning skate, which is a good sign that he'll be available on Saturday. Pinto has registered one assist and five shots on goal in four games this season.
Pinto will miss the remaining two games on the Senators' current homestand and then is not expected to travel with the team on their upcoming three-game road trip. With Pinto out, Nick Paul is expected to shift to centre on the Senators' second line.
Pinto was hurt early in Thursday's game vs. the Sharks and will not play on Saturday. The Senators are hopeful that Pinto will not be out long-term but they are expected to release a more detailed timetable after he's re-evaluated tomorrow.
Pinto skated on the fourth line with Connor Brown and Alex Formenton in Friday's practice and will replace Michael Amadio in the lineup on Saturday. Pinto was the No.32 overall pick in 2019 and scored 15 goals with 17 assists (32 points) in 28 games in his second season at the University of North Dakota.
