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The NHL has suspended Ottawa Senators Shane Pinto for 41 games after he was found to have violated the league's gambling policy. There is not enough evidence to suggest he bet on NHL games.
The 22-year-old becomes the first player in the NHL to be suspended for a gambling violation since the U.S. Supreme Court cleared the way for legalized sports wagering in 2018.
"The NHL considers this matter closed, absent the emergence of new information, and will have no further comment," the statement added.
Pinto has taken responsibility for his actions, releasing a statement of his own.
"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. I take full responsibility for my actions and look forward to getting back on the ice with my team."
The Senators also released a statement.
"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. 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.
"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."
Over the summer, betting scandals gripped the NFL, college football and baseball resulting in numerous suspensions of players and termination of staff. In recent days, some 40 Italian soccer players are believed to be under investigation for their alleged role in a gambling scheme.
- Gilbert Horowitz, Gambling911.com
