The New York Rangers have made a surprising roster move, sending towering fan favorite Matt Rempe down to their AHL affiliate, the Hartford Wolf Pack. The demotion comes after the 6’9″ enforcer appeared in just two of the Rangers’ first seven games this season, failing to register a point or even a penalty minute.
From Cult Hero to Healthy Scratch
Rempe, 22, became an instant cult hero last season during a memorable 17-game stint with the Rangers. The massive winger endeared himself to fans with a series of chaotic fights, including a brawl with Islanders tough guy Matt Martin in his NHL debut at the Stadium Series. Rempe racked up 71 penalty minutes and even scored a goal, energizing the crowd in his limited minutes.
However, Rempe found himself the odd man out in a stacked Rangers lineup to start the 2024-25 campaign. He was a healthy scratch for five of the first seven contests, seeing just over 11 total minutes of ice time in his two appearances. The writing seemed to be on the wall for a demotion to the minors.
Working to Become More Than a Fighter
While Rempe’s willingness to drop the gloves made him an instant fan favorite, the hulking forward spent the offseason trying to round out his game. He dedicated nearly two months to intensive power skating drills and worked extensively with star teammate Chris Kreider to improve his puck protection and forechecking abilities.
“The fighting is a very small part,” Rempe said in September. “I highly prioritize the skills, the skating and everything. I’ve got to become a better player, so that’s what I’ve got to work on.”
– Matt Rempe on his offseason training focus
The dedicated training wasn’t enough to earn a permanent spot in the lineup, however, as the Rangers are off to a blistering 5-1-1 start and boast impressive depth throughout the roster. The team’s management expressed faith in Rempe’s development and feel the best path forward is consistent playing time in Hartford.
Chance to Shine in the AHL
While the demotion may be disappointing for Rempe and his legions of fans, it provides the young power forward a vital opportunity to refine his game at the AHL level. The Rangers remain high on his potential and have been impressed by the maturity he’s shown in handling his diminished role and the eventual reassignment.
In Hartford, Rempe will see significant ice time in all situations, allowing him to develop the diverse skill set required to become an impactful bottom-six forward at the NHL level. If he can continue to make strides in his skating and puck skills while maintaining his physical edge, a recall to the big club seems inevitable.
“Rempe-Mania” on Hold
For now, Rangers fans will have to put their “Rempe-Mania” signs in storage, but the towering fan favorite remains an intriguing part of the organization’s future. His unique blend of size, toughness, and raw potential make him a player to watch in the coming years, even if his NHL journey has hit a temporary detour.
As the Rangers continue their pursuit of the Stanley Cup, Matt Rempe will look to make a statement in Hartford, proving he’s more than just a one-dimensional enforcer. If he can harness his immense potential and round out his game, it may not be long before “Rempe-Mania” runs wild on Broadway once again.
