If the Ottawa Senators decide to sell at the trade deadline, Shane Pinto might be on the move. Minnesota has some cap space, they need help down the middle, and they’re clearly looking at bigger names who can make an impact. The Athletic even mentioned Pinto and his Senators’ teammate Claude Giroux as players the Wild might check in on.
The Wild Need Help Down the Middle, and Pinto Can Help
It actually lines up pretty well. Minnesota could use more depth down the middle and someone who can score, and Pinto checks both boxes. In Ottawa, Tim Stutzle and Dylan Cozens have the top-six center spots locked down, so Pinto’s stuck on the third line. He’s shown he can play higher in the lineup because he’s talented and ready for a bigger role.
The contract situation works too. Pinto’s cap hit this year is $3.75 million, and he’s signed for four more years at $7.5 million AAV, with no trade protection for the first couple of seasons. The Wild could make that work, especially if they trade Jesper Wallstedt. Such a move doesn’t sound out of touch, especially given that Ottawa has poor goals-against numbers and could use a real upgrade in net.
Giroux Could Work, But He Wouldn’t Bring Pinto’s Future
Compare Pinto to Giroux. Giroux is older and a UFA after the season, so while he might help short-term. He’s cheaper, and he’s still putting up 10 goals and 37 points in 53 games, but he’s a short-term fix. Giroux is an option, but if Minnesota wants someone who can contribute now and in the future, Pinto makes more sense.
It could really work out for both teams. Ottawa moves a talented guy they’re not using fully and gets something back, while Minnesota picks up a young center who can score and strengthen their depth. Toss in a goalie swap with Wallstedt, and suddenly it’s a trade that actually changes things for both sides.
Senators Fans Shouldn’t Be Surprised if Pinto Moves
Bottom line: keep an eye on Pinto. If the Senators start selling, the Wild are exactly the kind of team that could make a run at him. Young, dynamic, center-ice talent doesn’t grow on trees—and Minnesota has the cap space and motivation to swing big.
Related: As Oilers, Senators, Others Seek Defensive Help, Insider Lists Available Options
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