And Rempe acknowledged another violation could lead to a “huge suspension,” forcing him to confront the daunting challenge of embracing his physicality — the strength that helped him carve out a marginal role in the first place and become a fan favorite after debuting last February — while preventing it from becoming reckless.

Returning to practice on Wednesday afternoon following an eight-game suspension, Rangers enforcer Matt Rempe admitted that he must play smarter moving forward.

The 6-9 forward finished serving his eight-game suspension and is eligible to return Thursday against the Devils.