NY Rangers coach Peter Laviolette makes his feelings known about Matt Rempe's 8-game suspension

NY Rangers head coach Peter Laviolette addressed Matt Rempe’s most recent suspension. Rempe received an eight-game ban for his hit on the Dallas Stars’ Miro Heiskanen on Dec. 20.

“It’s tough. It’s a big number for a suspension," Laviolette was quoted as saying by Newsday Sports. "I think you constantly learn, especially him in the way he plays the game. We’ll keep working with him as well. He’s an important part of our team, and he brings a lot to the table.”

The decision from the NHL’s Department of Player Safety (DoPS) to give Rempe an eight-game suspension was based on the fact that the Rangers forward was a repeat offender.

Last March, Rempe received a four-game ban for a vicious hit on New Jersey Devils player Jonas Siegenthaler. The hit on Heiskanen now constitutes a repeat offense, warranting the harshest punishment under the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Despite the clear violation of NHL rules, Laviolette defended Rempe’s performance on the ice.

“I thought he had a big impact in the game. I would like to stay away from the five-minute major, but he’s doing his best to hit bodies and make a difference in the game.” Laviolette added, “Our guys really rallied around that, as well. I thought he led off a little bit at the end. He’s just such a big guy.”

The NY Rangers won the game against Dallas 3-1. However, Rempe’s hit hung a dark cloud over the victory.

Matt Rempe suspension adds to NY Rangers' struggles

Rempe has appeared in just five games this season for the NY Rangers. In those games, he’s averaged a little over six minutes, failing to produce any points. Against the Dallas Stars, Rempe racked up a staggering 17 PIM.

But before earning a call-up for last Friday’s game in Dallas, Rempe had spent the bulk of the season in the AHL. He produced five points in 18 games. While that sort of production may not warrant an NHL call-up, it seems the Blue Shirts were looking to shake things up amid a sour streak.

The Rangers dropped a 3-1 decision against the Carolina Hurricanes on Sunday night before getting walloped 5-0 by the New Jersey Devils on Monday afternoon.

Unfortunately for Rempe, he will not be suiting any time soon. Even after serving his suspension, there’s no telling if the Rangers will be inclined to keep him on the NHL roster. Otherwise, Rempe could be headed back to the AHL when his suspension is up.

In the meantime, the DoPS’ recent suspensions of Rempe and Toronto Maple Leafs enforcer Ryan Reaves underscore that the league won’t tolerate any illegal hits, especially those that could seriously hurt players.