After a fiery matchup between the New York Rangers and the New Jersey Devils resulted in four players being ejected for their involvement in a line brawl, the players involved took the opportunity to reflect on the intense altercation. Despite the ejections, the players viewed the incident as a "team-building exercise" that showcased their unity and willingness to stand up for each other.

Defenseman Brendan Smith, one of the ejected Rangers, acknowledged the physical nature of the game but emphasized that the team's response was about more than just fighting. "It's kind of a team-building exercise," Smith said. "You see your team willing to step up for each other, and it builds a lot of character."

 

The line brawl occurred late in the third period after a series of physical plays escalated tensions between the two teams. As the situation escalated, players from both sides engaged in a series of fights, leading to the ejections.

 

Despite the ejections, the Rangers were able to maintain their focus and secure a 5-2 victory over the Devils. The team credited their response to the line brawl as a factor in their ability to stay united and focused on the game.

 

While line brawls are relatively rare in today's NHL, they can serve as a reminder of the intensity and physicality of the game. For the Rangers, the incident was a chance to demonstrate their unity and resolve, turning a chaotic situation into a bonding experience that could benefit the team moving forward.