The Ottawa Senators made headlines by securing defenceman Jake Sanderson with a hefty eight-year contract extension, starting in 2024-25, at $8.05 million per season. However, as they prepare for the 2023-24 season, GM Pierre Dorion still faces the task of signing two restricted free agents - Shane Pinto and Egor Sokolov.
According to Jimmy Murphy of Boston Hockey Now, the Bruins have expressed interest in Shane Pinto, should the Senators consider moving the 22-year-old. Contract negotiations between Pinto and the Senators seem distant, which has sparked trade rumors.
Pinto's name has surfaced in trade discussions primarily because the Senators reportedly favor Ridly Greig over him. Acquiring Pinto won't come cheap, as the Senators are said to be seeking a prospect close to making an NHL impact, with John Beecher or Fabian Lysell mentioned by Murphy.
Pinto, hailing from Franklin Square, New York, had an impressive rookie season in the 2022-23 NHL campaign, tallying 35 points (20 goals, 15 assists) and 18 penalty minutes while playing 82 games, despite a minus-21 rating.
