If only the Rangers could have kept their momentum going. Following kicking off the weekend with a 3-1 win at the Dallas Stars, the Rangers lost 3-1 against the Carolina Hurricanes in a Sunday matinee.
With this latest loss, New York now has a record of 16-16-1. Let's take a look at three key takeaways from the Rangers' latest loss.
1. No Matt Rempe
The NHL Department of Player Safety has suspended Rangers forward Matt Rempe for eight games for boarding, elbowing due to misconduct for play against Dallas Stars defenseman Heiskanen on Friday.
While he won't be able play for New York anytime soon — it's a fact that the last time Rempe was on the ice, it resulted in a Rangers win.
Perhaps the tough enforcer is a good luck charm.
2. Jimmy Vesey's Goal
The silver lining for New York came at the very start of the Dec. 22 matchup. 31-year-old left winger Jimmy Vesey scored the only goal of the day for the New York Rangers.
He now has four points so far during the 2024-25 campaign — including three goals and one assist.
VESEY DOES IT. pic.twitter.com/Fivep5F6Cv
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) December 22, 2024
But, clearly the high didn't last as the Rangers blew their lead and fell 3-1.
3. Rookie Berard
Rookie Brett Berard has clearly already proven himself to be a great addition to the ice for New York. He's seen 11 appearances since his debut against Seattle on Nov. 25.
In those games, he has already earned three points, including two goals.
Berard tallied four shots on goal against the Hurricanes.
Up Next
In what is their last game before the holidays — the Rangers now turn their attention to the return of the Battle of the Hudson River.
The Rangers travel to New Jersey to take on the Devils in a Monday matinee. Puck drop is slated for 1 p.m. EST and the game will be available for livestreaming via ESPN+.