The results speak for themselves, as the Rangers record you'd think would be chock full of losses with Rempe in the lineup, considering the penalties he takes.
However, according to Big Head Hockey, having Matt Rempe and his towering 6'9" 241 LB frame, as an intimidator has been a positive factor.
Like many enforcers before him, his presence on the ice helps create space and brings in a style of play, which Kapo Kakko can't bring as a primarily offensive forward.
An aggressive hitter and checker, a puck-retriever is what the team needs, as the Rangers are 16-1-0 with Rempe in the lineup.
Not to mention, having Mark Messier and Wayne Gretzky calling for you to be placed in the lineup helps.
So Laviolette, was it Messier or Gretzky who caused the lineup change?
Rempe, when not being a bruiser, has 2 points(1 G, 1 A) in 7 playoff games. Effectively replacing a role that was filled by Ryan Reaves during 2021-2023 before being shipped out to Minnesota.
During his short playoff stint, he's only averaged 6:18 TOI, and while only played 17 regular season NHL games, earned 71 PIMS with a plus/minus of +1.
Source: ESPN
Rangers' Matt Rempe awed by greats calling for him to play
POLL | ||
MAI 25 | 294 ANSWERS New York Rangers hold an Insane record with Matt Rempe in the lineup Do you like Matt Rempe in the Rangers lineup more than Kaapo Kakko? | ||
Yes | 244 | 83 % |
No | 50 | 17 % |
List of polls |