Jess Rubenstein, a long-time bird dog of the ice lanes who was the first spot Vincent Mancini as a future NHL ace, agrees that – if properly handled – Rempe could be a useful big leaguer. (Repeat: if properly handled.)

His first NHL shift, however, brought Rempe right back to his physical roots and back to the penalty box, limiting his time on ice once again. After the fight, Rempe exchanged words with McIlrath as the linesmen separated them. The bout set the tone for what would be a rough outing for the Rangers, who ultimately fell 5–3.

The fan favorite joined the Rangers on their trip to Washington for Tuesday's game, but Jimmy Vesey could rejoin the team on Friday.