Newest Ranger Puempel takes jabs at Senators’ style of play

Matt Puempel is not upset about moving on from the Ottawa Senators.

The 23-year-old winger was claimed by the New York Rangers following an injury to Mika Zibanejad, and the newest Blueshirt was asked about his new surroundings following his first win - and goal - with the club in his debut Friday.

"They let you play here, they let you play to your strengths," Puempel told Larry Brooks of the New York Post. "They know there are going to be mistakes. They're not barking at you every time you come off the ice. It's beneficial."

Puempel, a first-round pick of the Senators in 2011, managed just six points in 52 career games with Ottawa, and he feels the high-flying Rangers, who boast the most prolific offense in the NHL, are a superior fit.

"In Ottawa there for a while it was getting a little repetitious; chip the puck, chase the puck," Puempel said. "I think this was the most minutes I've played in a long time. The more minutes you get, the better you play. You're more engaged."

Puempel will quickly have a chance to back up his claims, as the Senators roll into Madison Square Garden on Sunday night.

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