New York Rangers enforcer Matt Rempe discussed the intense confrontation between Igor Shesterkin and Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk during an interview.
In an unexpected turn of events, the struggling New York Rangers triumphed over the Ottawa Senators, one of the league’s top-performing teams recently, with a commanding 5-0 victory.
The match was competitive for much of the evening until Rempe netted his team’s third goal early in the third period. After the game, he shared his thoughts on his goal and a skirmish that took place towards the end of the contest.
Regarding his goal, Rempe explained, “I saw the pass connect, didn’t overthink it, and then just took off when they set it up nicely. I called for it, got back into position, always made sure to adjust and it worked out—I’m glad it went in.”
He also recounted the altercation that happened near the Rangers’ net shortly after his goal. With just over 12 minutes remaining, as the Senators attempted to narrow the Rangers’ lead, Tkachuk collided with Shesterkin, prompting a significant melee in which Shesterkin actively engaged with Tkachuk.
Rempe reflected on the incident, stating, “I was a bit anxious because I didn’t want anything to happen to him, but I love that he’s a competitor. I just wanted to step in to ensure he was alright—it was great to see him stand his ground.”
Shesterkin also shared his perspective on the situation: “Tkachuk landed a few punches on me. Honestly, it was just a hit—I don’t really like that because I was in the crease. I didn’t want to get entangled, but I saw him getting involved with our guy, so I tried to hold him back, but he was clearly looking for a fight.”
Will the Rangers continue their resurgence, or are the Senators beginning to falter? The next few weeks should provide clarity.
