After making his debut in our Top 25 Under 25 two years ago at 25th, Shane Pinto jumped up ten spots to 15th on last year’s list. Following a strong sophomore season with the University of North Dakota, the 6’3 right-handed centre moves up yet another six spots to 9th. It’s pretty incredible to think that five years ago, Pinto wasn’t even considering professional hockey as a viable career path.
Ever since being selected 32nd overall by the Ottawa Senators in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, Pinto’s story has revolved around a development curve that is, frankly, absolutely insane.