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Matt Rempe 'want[s] to be a player. I want to be a hockey player' and not Just a Fighter

This Wednesday Rempe told reporters this his goal for next season is to prioritize his skating over his fighting. What steps has he taken this offseason to focus on his skills rather than his brawls?

By Jennifer Streeter

New York Rangers v Florida Panthers - Game Three
New York Rangers v Florida Panthers - Game Three / Joel Auerbach/GettyImages
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Matt Rempe is a known fighter for the New York Rangers on the ice.

Though, it appears he wants to be more than that. On Wednesday at the NHLPA Rookie Showcase in Arlington, Virginia, Rempe made it clear to a group of reporters that he wants to be a hockey player first — enforcer second.

“I want to be a player. I want to be a hockey player,” Rempe said, in a serious tone. “(Fighting) is a part of the game and it’s a nice tool to have, but I want to be a fast, physical player first.”

Rempe's statement comes at what could be considered a pivotal season in his career. Last season, his biggest moment was his on-ice fight with Toronto Maple Leafs' Ryan Reaves.

Though, the Canadian also added to his statistics. Rempe played in 17 games across both the regular and postseason, and even scored a goal during the playoffs as well.

“I highly prioritize the skills and the skating. I’ve got to become a better player, so that’s what I’ve got to work on,” Rempe explained. “I think I’ve taken big strides this summer with that.”

And that is exactly what Rempe prioritized this offseason. He has worked extremely hard this offseason to improve his skating and skills. How has he been doing that you ask? He's been working out in the Tri-state area — daily — with Rangers veteran forward Chris Kreider.

Going forward, Rempe said he still wants to keep fighting apart of his game, but more so when its necessary for the team.

“It’s making my fights have a reason,” Rempe said. “If we’re down in a game and need some energy, maybe I’ll fight then. Somebody gets blown up, that’s a good time to fight someone. I think you just have to be smarter … when you fight, do it at the most advantageous time possible for you so that you’re maximizing the value of that fight for the team.”

Commenters across Blue Line Station's social media have been saying that because of his brawls on the ice, Rempe should not be apart of what the Rangers have going forward. The time is this season for rempe to prove he's more than just a fighter.

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