The Ottawa Senators’ leading player, Shane Pinto, has been sidelined for 41 contests by the National Hockey League (NHL) for breaching the league’s regulations concerning wagering on sporting events.
Pinto is the initial NHL athlete to be suspended for sports betting since the repeal of PASPA in the middle of 2018. The New York native has been a member of the Senators since joining the team from a university in 2021.
The NHL did not reveal the complete details of the situation, merely stating it involved “activities connected to sports betting.” League rules forbid players from placing bets on NHL matches but permit them to wager on events outside the league.
However, the NHL stated there was no proof that Pinto wagered on any NHL games. It is therefore unclear what Pinto bet on and the reason for his suspension.
“The NHL considers this matter concluded,” the league declared. “We will not be offering further comments unless fresh information comes to light.”
Pinto also released a statement expressing regret for the matter.
“I wish to apologize to the NHL, the Ottawa Senators, my colleagues, the supporters, and the city of Ottawa, and most importantly my family,” Pinto stated. “I accept full responsibility for my actions and eagerly await returning to the ice with my team.”
The Senators will greet Pinto upon his return following his gambling suspension.
The Senators also recognized the suspension, stating that Pinto will be welcomed back to the squad once it is finished.
“We have been aware of the NHL’s examination into this matter and, yesterday, after the league’s investigation concluded, the club received additional information,” the team stated.
“Shane is a valuable member of our hockey club. He is a charming, intelligent young man, but he made a mistake that led to the NHL suspending him. We understand he regrets his actions.
“The Ottawa Senators fully support the NHL’s gambling regulations. While we are disheartened by this situation, the entire organization remains dedicated to supporting Shane and will work together to do everything we can to help him address this issue and become a strong contributor to our community.
“The time is appropriate, with the league’s approval, to welcome him back to the organization and treat him as one of our own.”
NFL players have also been suspended for violating gambling rules.
While this is the first NHL suspension for gambling, other leagues have taken action on similar situations. This is particularly evident in the National Football League, which announced further penalties this summer.
Denver Broncos player Eyioma Uwazurike was suspended indefinitely in July for a series of gambling violations.
The NFL said Uwazurike had been wagering on NFL games during the 2022 season.
Nevertheless, the particular things he wagered on have not been disclosed. It’s also uncertain if his group was involved in these actions.
In June, four other athletes were suspended for breaking betting regulations. Indianapolis Colts’ Isaiah Rodgers and Rashod Berry were prohibited for the remainder of the 2023 campaign. Free agent Demetrius Taylor was suspended for the 2023 season, while Nicholas Petit-Frere was banned for six contests.
Previously, in April, the NFL suspended five players for violating their wagering policy. Detroit Lions receivers Jameson Williams, Quintez Cephus, Stanley Berryhill, and CJ Moore were suspended. Washington Commanders defensive end Shaka Toney was also suspended.
Italian Football Players Suspended
Further away, several Italian football players have been suspended for breaking betting rules.
Yesterday (October 26), Sandro Tonali was banned for at least 10 months for violating gambling rules. Tonali, who currently plays for Premier League club Newcastle United, was initially banned for 18 months.
The prohibition was initially only enforced in Italy, but will almost certainly be extended worldwide. The ban will be reduced to 10 months if Tonali (who claims to have a gambling addiction) completes a rehabilitation program. Tonali will also pay a substantial fine as part of the penalty.
Tonali is one of three Italian internationals under investigation for gambling violations.
The trio, which included Nicolo Fagioli and Nicolo Zaniolo, was announced.
Fagioli, who currently plays for Juventus in Serie A, was suspended for seven months in early October. There is no information available yet regarding the penalty for Zaniolo, who currently plays for Aston Villa in the English Premier League.
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