One thing is for certain, the Ottawa Senators are a complicated group. As a team, they are certainly generating enough offence to win games, but it is tough to conclude that they are producing enough as a group without the presence of the emerging NHL star Shane Pinto. In contrast, we must mention that early-on this season their goaltending and defence have been just plain bread bad. Suffering succotash. But we are here to discuss Shane Pinto, and it seems as though there’s been a stake firmly planted in the ground. We recently provided an update on the situation, so let’s further our chat, right here, right now.
NHL Rumours: The Sens Made a Substantial Contract Extension Offer to Shane Pinto
Rumour: The rumour is plain and simple, the Ottawa Senators offered Shane Pinto an eight-year offer. Furthermore, the man providing the rumour, Elliotte Friedman, doesn’t believe a signing is imminent.
Analysis: Well, Friedman is the boss, and if he drops a rumour, you know he’s probably right. As we alluded to, we did drop an update earlier this week, but now Friedman has been talking numbers. Ah, more numbers if you’re following along at home. Regardless, we listen to the man they call Friedge.
The intriguing aspect of the timing of these rumours is that Pinto leads the entire NHL in goals. With seven through six Senators games, he has really been on fire. He’s been playing with Ridly Greig, and either of Michael Amadio or Claude Giroux a lot. The line provides many intangibles, and some scoring finish. Pinto is a complete player, and it has been showing early in 2025-26. Therefore, he is worthy of significant contract discussion.
The Ottawa Senators Saturday Night NHL Rumours
The rumours from earlier in the week discussed the dollar amount for Pinto. So, now we can combine that with the term, provided Saturday evening by Friedman. Sens insider Bruce Garrioch had mentioned earlier in the week a couple of potential contract comparables, or perhaps benchmarks. He made the point that Dylan Cozens is technically ahead of Pinto on the depth chart, makes $7.1 million per season. The other considerations include that the rising salary cap. Also, captain Brady Tkachuk is due for a contract renewal in the summer of 2028.
Pinto has two years remaining as restricted free agent status. These are all variables in planning the situation and the outcome. It seems there is a possible 8 x $7M deal currently on the table, if not more lucrative. This is where the seed seems to have been planted, and a reaction made. Pinto’s camp doesn’t want to be bothered with contract negotiations at this time. This really might be a by-product of the following attributes of their management.
General manager Steve Staios can be described as proactive, accountable, and a staunch negotiator. He gets his man, even if it takes a little bit. These overall contract talks we are referencing are more so a product of professionalism by the Sens management group. These rumours have little to do with a contradiction of opinions. Pinto will get signed, and it will be on his terms. He’s very busy this season, and his focus is evident in his play.
Some More Ideas from the Bigger Picture in Ottawa
The other idea is more relevant to the timing. With the month-or-two injury timeline for Brady Tkachuk, it is sure to stir rumours. More so, too, with the Sens struggling to find their footing thus far.
Even from a couple days ago, Garrioch mentioned the possibility of the Senators exploring available external options in terms of top-six scoring. You know, the perpetual goal of any playoff contender, really it is.
Furthermore, from our NHL rumours sources Darren Dreger was talking about replacing Brady Tkachuk’s offence. The conclusion at this time, and with the return of Drake Batherson, is that it will rely on internal line chemistry. The Sens seem to have enough talent to ride the wave of missing Brady. Tim Stutzle still needs to get going. There’s no reason to push the panic button, but their record so far isn’t good. If the struggle continues, look for them to explore more external options. They have a bit of cap space and more importantly, the motivation to win now. So whether that’s a veteran backup goalie or finding a top-six scorer, the Sens will be exploring their options.
Main Photo Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
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