Matt Rempe issues stern statement after being scratched for opening night game

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Joshua Deeds
October 11, 2024 (6:53 PM)

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The New York Rangers did something familiar with Matt Rempe they had once before. They scratched him Wednesday night when the team opened the season against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Adam Edstrom would take the spot on opening night, as Rempe had to ride the pine, watch, and observe.

However, in light of the healthy scratch, he took it in humility and with confidence.

"You always want to play, but I was happy to make the team," he said from his locker at the MSG Training Center. "That was the goal going into camp. I just take it as a day to get better."

Despite his response, you'd think he was complacent, but the 6'9" and 255-pound warrior has dedicated himself to improving his game. He may get some time to show his new skills off, but it will take patience for the towering forward.

Rempe's determined "to prove be an everyday player," as he said on the opening day of training camp, and he should get that opportunity this season. It just may take a little time.

The 22-year-old showed up healthy and in shape, ready to go, only to be played out of the lineup by Adam Edstrom. The two had been competing for the right-wing spot in the lineup all training camp. Edstrom and veteran Jonny Brodzinski put a barrier up from Rempe re-entering the lineup.

This is to say, that Rempe could still find a chance to slot in on the home opener on Saturday against the Utah Hockey Club.

"It's not going to make the decision," Laviolette said. "But I do think that there's an impact in the game from the juice that could bring into the building."

That gives us an idea that Rempe could instead be utilized at home, where he gets the most juice instead of away games.

Rempe became a fan favorite last season, by forging an identity as an enforcer and taking on just about every heavyweight in the NHL.

He was used sparingly last season, only averaging 5:38 TOI, and playing only 17 games. He'd only see the ice during the playoffs, with an ATOI of 6:07, and despite the limited usage would cause MSG to pop.

This explains why Rempe may once again used sparingly, but to see a new and improved Rempe this season will be exciting, as he has given himself a goal of becoming a power-forward instead of just an enforcer in the NHL.

We like the evolution of Rempe and are hopeful he achieves his goals, in due time of course.