New York Rangers Rookie Matt Rempe Suspended for Elbowing Devils Defenseman
ICARO Media Group
In a shocking turn of events, New York Rangers rookie forward Matt Rempe has been handed a four-game suspension by the NHL's Department of Player Safety. The suspension comes as a result of Rempe's elbowing incident involving New Jersey Devils defenseman Jonas Siegenthaler during Tuesday's game.
Despite having played in just 10 games this season, Rempe has already showcased his enforcer skills on multiple occasions, engaging in four fights and accumulating an impressive 54 penalty minutes. His aggressive play has earned him a reputation as a physical force since being called up to the Rangers.
During the game against the Devils, Rempe's hit on Siegenthaler was deemed dangerous by the league as he flared his left elbow up and out to make contact, rather than attempting to avoid the opposing player. The impact resulted in a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct for Rempe, while Siegenthaler sustained an injury and was unable to continue playing.
Devils defenseman Kurtis MacDermid expressed his frustration, stating, "I wish I could have gotten to him sooner and taught him a lesson." MacDermid was separated from Rempe by officials, preventing a potential altercation. As Rempe left the ice, he even mocked the Devils bench, further adding to the contentious atmosphere.
Interim Devils coach Travis Green criticized Rempe's actions, believing that there was intent to injure Siegenthaler. Green referred to the hit as "predatorial" and suggested that it was not the first time Rempe had displayed such behavior, particularly against the Devils.
Reflecting on the incident, MacDermid commented that Rempe still has much to learn about proper hitting techniques in the league. "You don't do things like that when you're in your first year in the league, especially... You've got to learn how to hit properly and not injure players," MacDermid remarked.
The suspension serves as a stern reminder to Rempe about the consequences of dangerous play. As he sits out the next four games, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact his future on the team and whether it will alter his approach to the game.
The New York Rangers organization has yet to release an official statement regarding Rempe's suspension. Fans and analysts will be closely watching for any potential disciplinary action from the team itself.