Well, fans hoped budding 22-year-old enforcer Matt Rempe's status for Saturday's play against New Jersey would be a sure thing by now; but it isn't.
According to Vince Mercogliano with USA Today Sports, Rempe was seen practicing in full on Friday and wearing a regular contact jersey. Given the Ottawa native was in a green no-contact jersey last week, this should be viewed as a positive development. However, New York Rangers Head Coach Peter Laviolette is not setting things in stone.
There's definitely contact for the big fella. He just had a pretty loud hit on JT Miller along the boards. Wonder if he'll return tomorrow... #NYR https://t.co/X3WXShhK4c
— Vince Z. Mercogliano (@vzmercogliano) April 4, 2025
Laviolette mentioned Rempe's progress to the media but was not certain if Blueshirt fans are going to see his return during Saturday's matinee. It is worth noted that the fan favorite did land a pretty hard hit on fellow Rangers star J.T. Miller.
Laviolette said that Rempe is “progressing,” but didn’t bite when I asked if he’s an option for tomorrow. #NYR
— Vince Z. Mercogliano (@vzmercogliano) April 4, 2025
A 22-year-old family-oriented player with two sisters (Alley and Steph) who formerly played hockey in the Ivy League Conference, Rempe was was drafted by the Rangers in 2020 (sixth round, pick No. 165). Despite his youth — the Alberta, Canada native has quickly become a fan-favorite due to his passion for having his teammates' backs on the ice. Standing at 6'9" and weighing 255 pounds on skates, Rempe has scored two goals this season and three assists.
Rempe's growth in skill this season — despite unwarranted attention from league referees — has been undeniable. He has also lived with netminder Jonathan Quick and his family, in addition to training with veteran Chris Kreider on the offseason.
How to Tune In
To see if Rempe returns to the ice following be placed on week-to-week status following fighting Tanner Jeannot during the Rangers 3-1 loss against the Los Angeles Kings, Blueshirt fans can tune in to puck drop on Saturday at 12:30 p.m. EST for the Hudson River Rivalry. The matchup will be available for livestreaming via ESPN+, Fubo and YouTube TV.