Matter now closed
The National Hockey League (NHL) has suspended Ottawa Senators forward Shane Pinto for 41 games for activities related to sports gambling.
first modern-day league player to be banned for sports gambling
Even though the league said there was no evidence that the 22-year-old had placed bets on NHL games, it still enforced a half-season ban, making Pinto the first modern-day league player banned for gambling. The league didn’t elaborate further on the issue, stating that the matter was closed unless new information came forward.
Taking full responsibility
The agreement between the NHL and?the NHL player’s association states “gambling on any?NHL game is prohibited.” However, it doesn’t mention gambling on other sports.
In a statement, Pinto said that he takes “full responsibility” for his actions and looks “forward to getting back on the ice” with his team.
Meanwhile, Coach DJ Smith said to reporters that the Senators would help Pinto and welcome him back when he’s allowed to return. In a statement, the Senators called Pinto a “valued member” of the team who made “poor decisions,” adding: “We know he is remorseful for his mistakes.
Sports stars banned
Since the US Supreme Court cleared the way for legalized sports wagering in 2018, many American sports stars have received bans for gambling. Pinto is just the latest of those.
he placed bets on NFL games while taking a mental health break
Wide receiver Calvin Ridley was reinstated by the NFL in March after being banned in 2022 when he placed bets on NFL games while taking a mental health break. As a result of his actions, Ridley missed the entire 2022 season.
MLB’s Pete Rose, who is permanently banned from baseball for gambling on games, is one player who won‘t enter the Hall of Fame due to his banishment from the sport. When Ohio ushered in a new era of sports betting in November, Rose placed the first bet.
In October, the NBA 2K League banned six players and a coach from participating in any form of league activity due to gambling violations. According to an investigation, the seven involved are alleged to have either placed bets or tried to place bets on NBA 2K League matches. The players also broke league rules by failing to report the violations or helping with the investigation.
