LAS VEGAS — There’s one thing you must admire about Shane Pinto.
Typically, when someone wishes to avoid discussing a sensitive topic, they steer clear of engaging with reporters. This was the case with unsigned Detroit Red Wings forward Lucas Raymond, who opted out of the NHL European player media tour in Prague last month, fully aware that questions surrounding his unresolved contract would dominate the conversation.
In contrast, Pinto, the young forward for the Ottawa Senators who received a 41-game suspension last season for violating league sports gambling policies, took the opportunity to represent his team at last week’s North American player media tour. He aimed to discuss the upcoming season, both personally and for the Senators.
The Senators boast plenty of talent, yet they have not reached the playoffs since their Eastern Conference final appearance in 2017. Pinto hopes this season will mark a turning point if the team can evade injuries and manage off-ice distractions.
“Obviously, we have faced several distractions, but I believe this is the first year leading into training camp without significant annoyances or changes in ownership,” Pinto stated. “I feel we now have stability. With a new coach in place and the right pieces brought in by Steve (Staios), I truly have a good feeling about this year.”
“We need to have a solid training camp, as that’s where it all begins. I believe this could finally be a good year, and I hope we can take the next step.”
GO DEEPER
Johnston: Inside details about the Shane Pinto suspension and what comes next
The league and the players’ union did not disclose specifics regarding Pinto’s suspension; however, he confirmed on a recent episode of the Empty Netters podcast that he was flagged for proxy betting by one of the NHL’s partners. Pinto revealed that while in Canada, he had friends in the United States placing bets on his behalf through one of his accounts. This practice is generally illegal when one is outside the jurisdiction of a licensed sports book or casino.
“I just didn’t know,” Pinto told a small group of reporters, including The Athletic, last week. “I simply didn’t know better.”
At the time of the league’s investigation, Pinto was unsigned and expressed feeling blindsided when his agent called to inform him that the league wanted to meet.
Ultimately, he chose to accept his punishment rather than appealing to commissioner Gary Bettman.
“I had to mature a lot, to be honest,” Pinto admitted. “In a way, it was a blessing in disguise. It taught me a great deal about my love for the game, how much I miss it, and its significance in my life. It also helped build my character. During those three months away from the team, although I had my family, I needed to stay motivated to prepare for my return, which proved a lot to myself.”
“When I came back, I felt I did well. I prepared myself and am pleased with how my year concluded. Nevertheless, it taught me not to take things for granted; it can all be taken away very quickly.”
Pinto, now 23, ultimately signed for
Pinto concluded last season strongly, netting nine goals and tallying 27 points over 41 games, which followed a rookie campaign where he scored 20 goals and recorded 35 points. In July, he signed a two-year extension with an average annual value of $3.75 million.
He expressed enthusiasm for the Senators’ offseason moves, particularly the acquisition of Linus Ullmark from the Boston Bruins.
“We definitely needed a goalie, and I’m thrilled we got him,” Pinto chuckled.
The Senators also made significant trades for Nick Jensen from Washington, in addition to signing established goal scorer and Cup champion David Perron, along with the underrated Michael Amadio from the Vegas Golden Knights.
Travis Green is stepping in as coach, taking over from Jacques Martin.
“Since he played, he’s more relatable to us,” Pinto remarked. “He comes off as a laid-back, easy-going guy. He had lunch with me, Chuckie (Brady Tkachuk), and Sandy (Jake Sanderson) during the Worlds and also checked in on me in July to ensure I was preparing well for the season.
“I’ve enjoyed our conversations thus far. He seems quite relaxed, though I know that could change during the season. So far, though, it’s been fantastic. I realize we have an intense training camp coming up, but I’m eager to start. I’m tired of waiting and can’t wait to hit the ice.”
Pinto may still be relatively new to the league, but he understands that Sens fans are also “sick of waiting” for Ottawa to make significant strides. With a strong core now in place, anticipation has surrounded the Senators in recent seasons. However, last year brought considerable disappointment, with the team finishing among the bottom ranks in terms of points in the NHL.
Though injuries plagued key players like Josh Norris and Thomas Chabot and Pinto missed half the season, the Senators also allowed the fifth-most goals per game (3.43) and had the lowest save percentage (.888) from goaltenders Anton Forsberg, Joonas Korpisalo, and Mads Sogaard, alongside the fourth-worst penalty kill (75.1 percent).
“Goaltending is crucial for any team, and I think that’s something everyone can agree on,” Pinto stated. “However, I believe that going through adversity last year only makes us grow stronger, helping us adapt in this league. If you look at successful teams, most of their core players are between 28 and 32 years old, while we’re currently between 22 and 26.”
“But there are no excuses. The fans have had enough, and so have we. This is the year we need to step up and show what we’re capable of; it’s time to stop just talking about it.”
Competing in the Atlantic Division does not make things easier for Ottawa, especially with teams like the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning, who have each secured three Stanley Cup championships in the last five years, alongside the traditional powerhouses like the Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs, as well as rising teams like the Buffalo Sabres, Detroit Red Wings, and Montreal Canadiens. Last season, the Senators finished seventh in the division.
“It’s all about maturation,” Pinto commented. “We can score goals comparable to any other team, but it’s ultimately about enhancing our defensive play. Towards the end of last season, we were making progress in that area. If you watch the Florida Panthers, they execute the details of the game exceptionally well; we need to focus on that as well.
“Additionally, having Ullmark will give us the confidence that we have someone back there who can steal games for us when we need it.”
(Top photo: Eliot J. Schechter / NHLI via Getty Images)
Shane Pinto Addresses Past Suspension and Hopes for a Breakthrough Season with Ottawa Senators
Understanding Shane Pinto’s Suspension
Shane Pinto, a promising young talent for the Ottawa Senators, faced a significant challenge at the start of his career: a suspension that raised eyebrows across the NHL. The suspension stemmed from a violation of the league’s substance abuse program, which put his future in the spotlight. While many fans were quick to judge, Pinto took the opportunity to reflect, learn, and grow both personally and professionally.
The Details of the Suspension
Pinto’s suspension was not just a setback; it was a pivotal moment that forced him to confront his choices and the implications of those choices within the realm of professional sports. Here are the critical points regarding the suspension:
- **Duration**: Pinto was suspended for a total of **41 games**.
– **Impact**: This suspension affected his development, as he missed nearly half the season, crucial for a young player still finding his footing in the NHL.
– **Response**: Pinto expressed remorse and took full accountability for his actions, stating, “I learned a lot from the experience and am committed to showing my dedication to the sport.”
Shane Pinto’s Road to Redemption
After his suspension, Pinto focused on rebuilding his reputation and honing his skills to make a comeback. His journey illustrates the importance of resilience and determination in professional sports.
Training and Development
To prepare for the upcoming season, Pinto engaged in a rigorous training regimen. His dedication to improvement is evident, and he employed various strategies to ensure he returned stronger:
– **Physical Conditioning**: Enhanced strength and conditioning programs to improve his on-ice performance.
– **Skill Development**: Worked closely with coaches to refine his skating and shooting skills.
- **Mental Preparation**: Engaged in mindfulness and mental health strategies to build resilience and focus.
Community Engagement
Pinto recognized the importance of rebuilding trust with fans and the community. He actively participated in outreach programs and team charity events, showing his commitment to being a responsible athlete off the ice.
Looking Ahead: Hopes for a Breakthrough Season
With his past behind him, Shane Pinto is geared up for what he hopes will be a breakout season with the Ottawa Senators. His optimism is grounded in the preparation he undertook during his suspension.
Setting Goals for the Season
Pinto has set clear objectives for himself this season. These goals not only reflect his desire to succeed but also highlight his commitment to the Ottawa Senators:
– **Performance Targets**: Aiming for **20 goals and 30 assists** in the upcoming season.
– **Team Contribution**: Focused on improving his defensive game to become a two-way player.
– **Leadership Role**: Aspiring to take on more responsibility within the locker room, especially as the team navigates a challenging season.
Building Chemistry with Teammates
Pinto understands the importance of chemistry within the team. He has taken proactive steps to build relationships with his teammates through:
- **Team Activities**: Participating in team-building exercises and social events.
– **On-Ice Communication**: Establishing a rapport during practices to enhance on-ice synergy.
Case Studies: Successful Comebacks in Sports
Shane Pinto’s story mirrors that of several professional athletes who have overcome adversities. Here are a few notable case studies that serve as inspiration for Pinto and other athletes facing similar challenges:
| Athlete | Challenge | Outcome |
|——————-|——————————-|————————————–|
| Josh Gordon | Substance abuse issues | Returned to NFL; Pro Bowl selection |
| Derrick Rose | Injuries | Won NBA MVP; multiple All-Star appearances |
| Alex Smith | Severe leg injury | Returned to NFL; led Washington to playoffs |
These examples demonstrate that setbacks can often lead to significant comebacks, and Pinto is poised to follow suit.
Benefits of Overcoming Adversity
For athletes like Shane Pinto, overcoming adversity offers numerous benefits:
– **Personal Growth**: Learning valuable life lessons that contribute to personal development.
- **Resilience**: Developing mental toughness that can be applied both on and off the ice.
– **Increased Motivation**: A renewed sense of purpose and dedication towards achieving goals.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Athletes
For young athletes inspired by Shane Pinto’s journey, here are some practical tips on how to deal with setbacks and work towards success:
1. **Embrace Challenges**: View setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles.
2. **Seek Guidance**: Connect with mentors and coaches who can provide essential feedback and support.
3. **Stay Committed**: Dedicate time to practice and improve your skills, regardless of setbacks.
4. **Build a Support System**: Surround yourself with positive influences, including family, friends, and teammates.
The Role of Ottawa Senators in Pinto’s Journey
The Ottawa Senators play a crucial role in Shane Pinto’s career trajectory. The team’s management and coaching staff have shown support throughout his suspension and recovery process. They have also provided him with the resources necessary to grow as a player.
Team Support Initiatives
The Senators have implemented various initiatives to support players during challenging times:
– **Mental Health Resources**: Offering counseling and mental health programs for athletes.
– **Player Development Programs**: Focused on skill enhancement and professional growth.
Fan Engagement and Support
Pinto’s relationship with fans is also evolving. The Ottawa Senators fans have expressed their support through:
– **Social Media Interaction**: Fans widely engaging with Pinto’s posts, sharing words of encouragement.
– **Community Events**: Enthusiastic participation in events where Pinto is present, showing their loyalty and support.
Conclusion
Shane Pinto’s journey through suspension and his aspirations for a breakthrough season with the Ottawa Senators exemplifies resilience and dedication. His commitment to personal growth, improved performance, and community engagement positions him as a player to watch in the upcoming season. Through his story, aspiring athletes can draw inspiration to overcome their challenges and strive for greatness in their respective sports. With the right mindset and determination, Shane Pinto is set to make a significant impact both on and off the ice.
