Latest update on Shane Pinto and the Senators as ban lift nears

At the end of October, Ottawa Senators free agent forward Shane Pinto was suspended 41 games for activities relating to sports wagering, though very little details on his ban have emerged because of confidentiality agreements built into the 22-year-old’s plea bargain with the league. However, it was quickly noted that the Senators were not looking to trade him and were still focused on signing the young forward to a new contract once the ban was lifted.

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman recently found out, though it was not confirmed by the Senators, that Pinto was on his way back to Ottawa, which could mean things may fall into place soon after his suspension is served. This is what Friedman reported in his latest 32 Thoughts column:

“No comment from team or agent, but sounds like Shane Pinto will be returning to Ottawa in the near future. He is eligible to return to action Jan. 21, but obviously needs to be there earlier to re-set in the area.”

Pinto’s suspension is retroactive to the Senators’ first game of the season and the forward will be eligible to play on Jan. 21. When the announcement was first made on his ban, it was reported that team had rescinded all previous contract offers to Pinto, who wasn’t likely to sign with the Sens until he has served his suspension in January.

It looks more and more that Pinto will be coming back to Ottawa. He has received in the past support from his teammates and head coach D.J. Smith, which is a good sign for him to return in the dressing room.

First and foremost though, he needs a new deal, but a return to Ottawa definitely shows that he is ready to hear the Senators. Back in September, reports had emerged that Pinto was upset with a low one-year offer and is allegedly seeking around $2.5 million. However, due to his suspension and trouble cause to the Senators, he may be willing to accept a lower offer to prove his worth once again on the ice upon his return.

Pinto is putting in the efforts and so let’s see in just over a month was the Senators’ bid is and how the rest of the season will unfold for Pinto.

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