Suspended Senators' Shane Pinto Returns with New Contract

Set to make season debut on Sunday, Pinto's return could provide much-needed boost for struggling Ottawa Senators.

Shane Pinto, Ottawa Senators forward, has signed a one-year, $775,000 contract with the club, allowing him to return to the ice after a 41-game suspension for violating the NHL's sports wagering rules.
Pinto, 23, became the first NHL player of the modern era to receive a gambling-related suspension when he was handed a half-season ban in October.
The exact circumstances around Pinto's wagering have not been disclosed, but it has been confirmed that he did not bet on hockey.
Pinto is set to make his season debut on Sunday in Philadelphia, earning a prorated salary of just under $360,000 for the remainder of this year.
The Ottawa Senators, currently last in the Eastern Conference and 19 points back of a playoff spot, are expected to welcome Pinto back as they could use an emotional boost.