After enduring a 41-game suspension for violating the league’s gambling rules, Ottawa Senators’ forward Shane Pinto has finally returned to the ice, marking a significant moment in his tumultuous journey. Pinto, a 23-year-old rising star, expressed his gratitude and happiness during his first practice back with the team.
Reflecting on his suspension, Pinto acknowledged the challenges he faced during the extended period away from the game. The suspension, imposed by the league in October, kept him out of action for 283 days, making his return on January 21 when the Senators face off against the Philadelphia Flyers. Despite the setback, Pinto used the time off to his advantage, emphasizing the positive impact on his physical and personal growth.
Describing the experience as an “extended off-season,” Pinto admitted to taking full advantage of the break, allowing his body to recover and mature. He highlighted the personal growth he underwent off the ice, expressing optimism about how it would positively influence his performance on the ice.
Currently a restricted free agent, Pinto, a former standout at North Dakota, has not played since the Senators’ 2022-23 season finale against the Buffalo Sabres on April 13. The time away from the game provided him with an opportunity for self-reflection, prompting him to appreciate the fragility of success and the importance of cherishing every moment on the ice.
While Pinto did not delve into the specifics of his suspension, he shared that he received calls from fellow NHL players seeking insight into his situation, hoping to avoid making similar mistakes. This outreach indicates Pinto’s willingness to use his experience as a cautionary tale for others in the league.
During his hiatus, Pinto returned to his hometown of Franklin, N.Y., where he worked with a skating coach to stay in peak condition. He confirmed that a significant portion of his training took place back home before joining the team three weeks prior to his official return.
Having scored 20 goals and 15 assists in a remarkable 82-game performance last season, Pinto aims to build on his success and contribute to the Senators’ improvement on the ice. The team, currently last in the Atlantic Division, faces a challenging climb to reach playoff contention, trailing behind the Montreal Canadiens and Buffalo Sabres by 12 points and sitting 15 points out of a Wild Card spot. Pinto’s return is anticipated to inject renewed energy and skill into the Senators’ lineup as they look to turn their season around.
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