Matt Rempe is ready to take on his first full NHL season with the New York Rangers with a focus on personal growth and independence. The 6-foot-9 forward made a name for himself last season with his physical play and willingness to drop the gloves, endearing himself to Rangers fans in the process.
Embracing the Role of Enforcer
In his rookie season, Rempe quickly established himself as a player willing to stand up for his teammates and make his presence felt on the ice. His 71 penalty minutes in just 17 regular-season games showcased his willingness to engage in the physical aspects of the game, a trait that endeared him to Rangers fans who appreciated his toughness and tenacity.
While some critics questioned the frequency of Rempe’s fights, the young forward remained steadfast in his approach. He viewed his role as an enforcer as an essential part of his contribution to the team, especially as a young player looking to earn his place in the NHL.
Learning from Legends
Throughout his rookie season, Rempe received unsolicited advice from retired NHL enforcers who recognized his potential and offered guidance on how to navigate the physical demands of the game. One such mentor was Georges Laraque, a former enforcer with over 1,000 penalty minutes in his career.
Laraque’s insights into the finer points of fighting and the importance of picking his spots wisely resonated with Rempe, who valued the opportunity to learn from someone with extensive experience in the role of enforcer. The time spent at Laraque’s summer hockey camp in Edmonton provided Rempe with valuable insights and techniques to improve his fighting skills and protect himself on the ice.
Balancing Physicality with Skill Development
While Rempe’s fighting prowess garnered attention, he recognized the importance of honing his overall hockey skills to excel in the NHL. Throughout the summer, he dedicated himself to power skating drills and worked closely with his teammate and mentor, Chris Kreider, to improve his forechecking and puck protection abilities.
Rempe’s focus on developing his skills beyond fighting highlights his commitment to becoming a well-rounded player capable of making a significant impact on the ice. By prioritizing his skating, shooting, and defensive abilities, he aims to earn a regular role in the Rangers’ lineup and contribute in ways that extend beyond his physical presence.
Looking Ahead to the Future
As he prepares for his second NHL season, Rempe is eager to continue his growth as a player and make a lasting impact with the Rangers. His goal of securing a spot in the team’s bottom six forwards reflects his desire to be a reliable contributor in all aspects of the game, from physical play to offensive production.
Despite the attention he garnered in his rookie season, Rempe remains focused on his development and the team’s success. He understands the importance of balancing his role as an enforcer with his responsibilities as a hockey player, emphasizing the need to make smart decisions on the ice that benefit the team as a whole.
As Rempe embarks on his sophomore season in the NHL, he is determined to build on his experiences from his rookie year and continue to evolve as a player. With a renewed focus on personal growth and skill development, he is poised to make a significant impact for the Rangers and establish himself as a key contributor for years to come.