NHL insiders have differing opinions on Matt Rempe's eight-game suspension.
There is a debate revolving around the validity of Matt Rempe’s eight-game suspension.
Rempe was given a massive punishment for his hit on Miro Heiskanen and some NHL insiders have differing opinions on if he necessarily deserved it.
First, there is Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman who believes that Rempe deserved to be punished harshly and should use this as a learning lesson.
“He deserved the suspension for it and all I can say is I hope he learns his lessons... He's just gotta learn his lessons, and if he doesn't, then, you know, he's gonna keep getting suspended or eventually his NHL dreams will come to an end,” Friedman said.
Larry Brooks of The New York Post is under the impression that the NHL targeted Rempe because of his reputation and an eight-game suspension was unnecessary.
“Selective prosecution. Rempe should appeal,” Brooks posted via X.
The NHL Department Of Player Safety referred to the hit as “boarding/elbowing.” The hearing between the NHL Department Of Player Safety and Rempe took place on Sunday.
The puck was already off of Heiskanen’s stick, but Rempe came flying in with his elbow directed at the head of Heiskanen.
The 22-year-old forward has been assessed four game misconducts as well as eight major penalties in 22 regular-season games for the Rangers.
Peter Laviolette was asked about the incident shortly after it occurred. While he didn’t dive into much detail, he came to the defense of his player without fully letting Rempe off the hook.
“I thought he led off a little bit at the end. He’s just such a big guy,” head coach Peter Laviolette said. “We killed the five, and we’re moving on.”
We will have to see if this suspension changes Rempe at all or if he’ll continue making headlines with his controversial style of play.