After initially being on the cusp of making the roster during training camp, Matt Rempe—an imposing 6-foot-9 forward known for his physical play and fighting skills—managed to secure a spot on the New York Rangers’ opening night lineup. This clearance became evident Sunday when the Rangers placed Taylor Raddysh on waivers, making room for Rempe, who is not waiver-exempt, and Jaroslav Chmelar, who is, to be part of the 23-man roster that will travel to Boston for Tuesday’s season opener.
Rempe, who only played 26 games last season due to two procedures on his left thumb, faced significant pressure to prove himself to the coaching staff at the start of training camp. He appeared to do just enough, earning a spot with the team to kick off the season. During the preseason, he was primarily rotating in as a forward, not initially among the first to take the ice with the fourth line. Over three exhibition games, he recorded 14 hits, two assists, and two blocked shots. In a final dress rehearsal against the Islanders, Rempe—who has logged 96 NHL games and 12 points in his career, along with 10 fights—lined up on the fourth line alongside Tye Kartye and Joe Veleno, signaling his return to a healthy state after struggling with puck handling and shooting following his thumb surgery last season. His last NHL game before the preseason was on February 5.
Images captured during the preseason show Rempe competing fiercely on the ice, highlighting his physical style of play. His coach, Mike Sullivan, noted that Rempe has been working to regain his full capabilities, acknowledging that missing so much hockey makes it challenging to get back to peak form. Sullivan emphasized that Rempe’s contributions extend beyond scoring, citing his role in team dynamics and the respect he has among teammates.
Fan Take: This development is exciting for hockey fans because it showcases how players can persevere through injuries and setbacks to earn their spot on an NHL roster. Rempe’s story reminds us of the grit and determination that make the sport so thrilling to watch.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
