The NHL suspended Ottawa Senators forward Shane Pinto for 41 games on Thursday, making the 22-year-old American the first modern-day player banned for sports gambling.
The league said the half-season ban was for “activities relating to sports wagering” and that its investigation found no evidence Pinto bet on NHL games.
“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 released by the team. "I take full responsibility for my actions and look forward to getting back on the ice with my team.”
The league in its announcement said it considers the matter closed and would have no further comment. Coach D.J. Smith told reporters at the team's morning skate in New York that the Senators would help Pinto and welcome him back with open arms when he's eligible to return.
That would be the middle of this season, once Pinto signs a contract. He is currently an unsigned restricted free agent.
“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.”
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