New York Rangers record most hits in game in over three years

Despite being down two defenseman in the third period, the New York Rangers broke another record against the Islanders in the Battle of New York on Tuesday night.

The Rangers recorded 47 hits against their fellow city foe; the number was monumental in that it was the most hits the Blueshirts have posted in a game in over three years. The last time the Rangers recorded over 40 hits in a game was on March 9th, 2021 in Pittsburgh against the Penguins. In the National Hockey League, the Rangers' 47 hits is the fourth highest total so far this year.

An even more interesting note is when one considers that the two skaters with the most hits of all time in league history have ties to the Islanders. Cal Clutterbuck with the New York Islanders and Minnesota currently leads the league all-time in hits with 4,029. Matt Martin, a current member of the Isles' roster, follows with 3,922 hits.

The Tuesday night physicality on display led to good things for the Blueshirts. In fact, the New York Rangers furthered their efforts in the Wild Card playoff race with a 5-1 win over the New York Islanders. The Tuesday contest saw many highlights for the Rangers, including nine different Blueshirts recorded points. Jonny Brodzinski led the pack for the Rangers — prompting many to type "Here's Jonny" all over social media. He posted an impressive three points (two goals, one assist).

Enforcer for the Rangers — Matt Rempe — said the game had high stakes which likely led to the physicality.

"Big win, first one I feel like after the break probably," Rempe said. "Hopefully we just keep building. All of these games are so important now, especially against a bitter rival like that. It's big. Every single one of these games over the next so many nights, we've got to build."