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Matt Rempe Ejected In First Game Back to Rangers Lineup

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Dec 21, 2024 5:26 AM ET

Matt Rempe’s return to the New York Rangers lineup Friday night was eventful for all the wrong reasons.

Playing his first NHL game since being recalled from the AHL following Kaapo Kakko’s trade, the 22-year-old forward was ejected during the third period for a dangerous hit from the back on Dallas Stars defenseman Miro Heiskanen.

The incident occurred with 12:50 minutes left in the third period when Heiskanen passed the puck in the neutral zone. Rempe came from behind and raised his elbow into Heiskanen’s neck, driving him into the boards.

The play resulted in a five-minute major penalty for elbowing and a game misconduct for Rempe, leading to his ejection.

Rangers Matt Rempe ejected for the 4th time in his career in 22 career NHL games. pic.twitter.com/Q4QmJoxlwk
— Sportsnet Stats (@SNstats) December 21, 2024

While Rangers goalie Igor Shesterkin was excellent in net stopping 41 shots, New York had to wait until deep into the third frame to clinch the win after not separating on the scoreboard for most of Friday's matchup.

Ultimately, the Rangers earned a 3–1 victory over the Stars with goals by Chris Kreider, Reilly Smith, and Vincent Trocheck helping New York break a three-game losing skid.

Rempe’s ejection marked his fourth career-wise in only 22 NHL games. Just Friday, Rempe had already drawn three penalties before dropping the huge hit on Heiskanen and getting removed from the game.

Speaking before the matchup against the Stars and following his call-up, Rempe said his stint in AHL's Hartford was good for his development.

"I got a long journey ahead of me," Rempe said, per Mollie Walker of the New York Post. "I’ve come a long way in a short time and I think that the best thing for me is to just keep developing and stuff like that.

"First years in Hartford, I don’t think I played over 12 minutes once. I don’t think I played a single second of special teams–ever. I think that for me to go and suddenly play 18 minutes and be very effective, as well, Not just be given that, earn it as well. I can be very effective in those minutes.

"It’s very beneficial. I think it means my games come a long way."

The Rangers will host the Carolina Hurricanes next at Madison Square Garden on Sunday.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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