The New York Rangers made a decision to send Matt Rempe, a fan favorite, to their AHL affiliate, the Hartford Wolf Pack, after a slow start to the season. Rempe, who is 22 years old, only played in two out of seven games for the Rangers and did not make any significant contributions on the scoreboard. Despite being a healthy scratch for most games, Rempe had a notable season last year with a series of fights that gained attention from the league.
Standing at an impressive 6 feet 9 inches, Rempe’s aggressive style of play led to 71 penalty minutes last season, including a suspension for elbowing. His fighting skills made him popular among Rangers fans, earning him the nickname “Rempe-Mania.” However, Rempe worked hard in the offseason to improve his overall game, focusing on his hockey skills rather than just his fighting abilities.
During the summer, Rempe dedicated himself to power-skating drills and worked with teammate Chris Kreider to enhance his forechecking and puck protection. Despite his efforts, the Rangers believed that Rempe needed more playing time to further develop his skills. They were impressed by his positive attitude towards the decision to move to the AHL and continue his progress there.
The Rangers have been performing well this season, with a record of 5-1-1 despite a recent loss to the Florida Panthers. The decision to send Rempe to Hartford reflects the team’s commitment to player development and ensuring that each player has the opportunity to reach their full potential. With Rempe’s determination and work ethic, there is no doubt that he will continue to grow as a player and potentially make a return to the Rangers’ lineup in the future.