Forward Shane Pinto is back with the Ottawa Senators. Pinto inked a one-year deal with the franchise that is valued at $775,000.
Pinto became a restricted free agent after the 2022-23 NHL season but didn’t land a contract in the offseason due to a 41-game suspension he received from the league in October. The 23-year-old player is already eligible to return to the ice.
While Pinto didn’t play at all this season, Senators’ head coach Jacques Martin already plans to use him for the game against the Philadelphia Flyers on Sunday. According to Martin, Pinto remained in shape throughout his suspension and is eager to get back into action.
“He’s been skating for quite a while now. So I think he’s anxious to get back in the lineup,” Martin said. “So he’ll be a pleasant addition.”
Pinto also said that he believes he’s ready to play as soon and as much as Martin asks of him.
“I’ve been training for a while. I’m fresh, my body feels good,” said Pinto. “That’s a coach’s decision. But, I feel like I could play however much he wants me to.”
Pinto played in all 82 games with the Senators last season. He scored 20 goals and added 15 assists. It was his first full season in the NHL.
