NHL insider reveals details of Shane Pinto's suspension showing clear favoritism by the league

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Josh tupper
October 26, 2023 (12:40)

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The Shane Pinto situation in Ottawa took a crazy turn this morning when the National Hockey League announced that Pinto had been suspended for 41 games. According to the league Pinto had been suspended for breaking the league's anti-gambling policy. This suspension marked the first under this policy.

Many immediately wondered when Pinto, who is currently unsigned, would begin his suspension. In most cases players are unable to serve suspensions when they don't have a contract, however it appears the NHL has made an exception for Pinto.

Told Pinto's suspension officially begins with Game 1 of Ottawa's season, and is not dependent on him signing a contract.

Pinto's suspension carriers over into the new year, which also left many wondering about the December 1st, restricted free agent signing date. If Pinto is unsigned by that date he is supposed to be ineligible for this year. Never fear though, the NHL has opted to make an exception for Pinto and the Ottawa Senators.

I believe the Dec. 1 rule has been waived in this scenario as well. So if Pinto signs after Dec. 1, he can still play this season

This entire situation continues to get more confusing and seems to truly undermine the spirit of the rules in place. But this is the NHL and the rules only apply when Gary Bettman believes they should.