nypost
Matt Rempe's offseason was dominated by the recovery of his right hand, which underwent two surgical procedures to address a broken thumb sustained last season. The 6-foot-9 forward attempted an early return to the ice but was ultimately sidelined for the majority of the campaign, a setback that stalled his development at a crucial juncture.
Now, as the Rangers open training camp, Rempe finds himself competing against former Hartford Wolf Pack teammates for a spot in the bottom six. With his waiver-exempt status expired, the organization may be inclined to keep him on the roster to avoid losing him for nothing, but his performance in preseason will be decisive.
Speaking on Thursday at the Shoulder Check Showcase event at Sacred Heart University's Martire Family Arena, Rempe expressed intense motivation. "I played nine games, and after that, I was shelved," he said. "I got a lot to prove. I got to showcase myself and come back a lot stronger. Most motivated you can be."
While Rempe indicated his hand is close to 100 percent, he admitted there is still work to be done, noting that a premature return in December hindered his grip. Reflecting on the experience, he acknowledged the need to be more transparent about injuries, calling the ordeal a learning process. "Still some time until the season," he added. "We're in a really good spot."
Key Analysis
Rempe's niche role as an enforcer provided a spark for the 2023-24 Rangers team that reached the Eastern Conference Final, but his absence has allowed other prospects to emerge and capture head coach Mike Sullivan's attention. Sullivan has been particularly impressed by Rempe's ability to shift momentum through physical play, which energizes both the team and the Madison Square Garden crowd.
However, the challenge of staying in the NHL is well-documented, and Rempe's thumb injury may have set him back. Arriving at camp with a more complete game could be the difference-maker. "I think we got to come back with vengeance," Rempe said of the Rangers, who have endured two disappointing seasons. "Two tough seasons and knowing that's not what we want to be like at all. We got to come back way stronger." Whether Rempe is part of that resurgence remains to be seen, but his determination is undeniable.
Originally reported by nypost.