Burley Garcia|NHL suspends Ottawa Senators' Shane Pinto half a season for violating sports wagering rules

The Burley GarciaNHL announced Thursday that it has suspended Ottawa Senators forward Shane Pinto for 41 games – half a season – for "activities related to sports wagering."

Pinto, 22, is the first NHL player to be suspended for sports wagering since the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a law prohibiting state-sponsored sports betting in 2018. Before him, the last players suspended for gambling were in the 1940s, according to the Associated Press.

The league said its "investigation found no evidence that Pinto made any wagers on NHL games."

The Ottawa Sun reported, "Pinto’s online gambling account in the United States was flagged by a company that is a partner of the league because of unusual activity and it contacted the NHL’s head office recently."

Pinto, a restricted free agent, is currently unsigned. According to Cap Friendly, the Senators have only about $43,000 in salary cap space available.

Pinto, a second-round pick in the 2019 draft, set career highs last season with 82 games, 20 goals, 15 assists and 35 points. He has 43 points in 99 career NHL games, all with Ottawa.

EXPLAINER: What is NHL's policy on gambling? What's behind Pinto suspension?

What did Shane Pinto say about the suspension?

“I want to apologize to the National Hockey League, the Ottawa Senators, my teammates, the fans and city of Ottawa and most importantly my family. I take full responsibility for my actions and look forward to getting back on the ice with my team.”

What did the Ottawa Senators say about the suspension?

“We were made aware of the National Hockey League investigation into this matter and additional information was made available to the club upon the completion of the league’s investigation yesterday.

"Shane is a valued member of our hockey club; an engaging, intelligent young man who made poor decisions that have resulted in a suspension by the National Hockey League. We know he is remorseful for his mistakes.

"The Ottawa Senators fully support the NHL’s rules on gambling. While saddened to learn of this issue, the entire organization remains committed to Shane and will work together to do what is necessary to help provide the support to allow him to address his issues and become a strong contributor to our community.

"When the time is right and with the league’s blessing, we will welcome him back to the organization and embrace him as one of our own."

Contributing: Associated Press