Puempel Notches First Career NHL Hat Trick

AM800-Sports-Matt-Puempel-Dec2016-1.2300407 GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 29: Matt Puempel #12 of the New York Rangers celebrates after scoring a hat trick goal against the Arizona Coyotes during the third period of the NHL game at Gila River Arena on December 29, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. The Rangers defeated the Coyotes 6-3. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) (Christian Petersen/GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 29: Matt Puempel #12 of the New York Rangers celebrates after scoring a hat trick goal against the Arizona Coyotes during the third period of the NHL game at Gila River Arena on December 29, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. The Rangers defeated the Coyotes 6-3. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images))

Published: December 30, 2016 at 7:20AM EST

Essex native leads New York Rangers past Arizona Coyotes

A milestone night for Essex native Matt Puempel.

The former first-round pick of the Ottawa Senators notched his first career NHL hat trick to lead the New York Rangers to a 6-3 win in Arizona over the Coyotes.

Puempel's three goals were scored on the power play.

He was claimed off waivers by the Rangers from Ottawa earlier this season.

In 12 games with New York, Puempel has five goals and six points.