Could Shane Pinto go to a Western Conference Powerhouse?

If the Ottawa Senators decide to sell at the trade deadline, Shane Pinto could make a move. Minnesota has some cap space, they need help under center, and they’re clearly looking at bigger names who can make an impact. The Athletics even mentioned Pinto and his Senators teammate Claude Giroux as players the Wild could check in on.

The wild animals need help in the middle, and Pinto can help

It actually fits quite well. Minnesota could use more depth at center and someone who can score, and Pinto checks both boxes. In Ottawa, Tim Stutzle and Dylan Cozens have locked down the top six center positions, so Pinto is stuck on the third line. He has shown he can play higher in the lineup because he is talented and ready for a bigger role.

The contract situation also works. 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 few seasons. The Wild could make that work, especially if they trade Jesper Wallstedt. Such a move doesn’t sound outlandish, especially considering 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 with Giroux. Giroux is older and a postseason UFA, so while he could help in the short term. He’s cheaper and still scores 10 goals and 37 points in 53 games, but he’s a short-term solution. Giroux is an option, but if Minnesota wants someone who can contribute now and in the future, Pinto makes more sense.

It really could work out for both teams. Ottawa moves a talented guy they aren’t fully utilizing and gets something in return, while Minnesota picks up a young center who can score and bolster their depth. Throw in a goalie trade with Wallstedt and suddenly it’s a trade that changes things for both parties.

Senators fans shouldn’t be surprised if Pinto makes a move

In short: keep an eye on Pinto. If the Senators start selling, the Wild are exactly the kind of team that could target him. Young, dynamic talent doesn’t grow on trees – and Minnesota has the space and motivation to go big.

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