The recent injury news regarding New York Rangers forward Matt Rempe has done little to help cement his foothold on an NHL job.
As initially reported by Blue Line Station’s Tom Urtz Jr., Rempe will be having surgery to repair a thumb injury initially sustained in October. Rempe broke the thumb in his left hand during a bout with San Jose Sharks enforcer Ryan Reaves.
Rempe shattered his thumb, requiring an initial surgical procedure and about two months off. When he returned, Rempe was clearly ineffective. His lone goal in 26 games highlights how little offense he brings to the table on top of a non-existent defensive game.
As such, Rempe’s one-dimensional play is one of the many reasons why the Rangers have had such a sour season. Yes, Rempe’s size and physicality are welcome. But the fact that Rempe offers little else shows why it’s time for the Rangers to move on from Rempe.
The 23-year-old signed a two-year extension before the beginning of this season. His $975K cap hit can be easily dumped in the AHL, essentially negating its impact at the NHL level. That’s reason enough to send Rempe back down to the AHL if he is still able to return this season.
Moving forward, Rempe should start next season in the AHL. Perhaps more consistent playing time there could buy the 6’9” forward time to develop skills beyond using his fists. Given the complex and cumbersome nature of his injury, Rempe’s fighting days are likely done.
If Rempe can't fight, what would is place on the team be?
Rempe will need to reinvent himself in return to Rangers lineup
It’s hard to give up on a young player like Rempe. That’s why, if he is to return to the NHL, Rempe will need to reinvent himself. That situation could mean using his size and physicality to potentially become a decent fourth-line checker or become more of a defensive forward.
There’s little expectation for Rempe to suddenly become an offensive force. So, playing a depth role could be the former sixth-round pick’s best ticket to the NHL next season.
However, the Rangers can’t afford to let Rempe rediscover himself in the NHL. Even if the Blueshirts aren’t really playing for much this season, and potentially next year, too, the club can ill-afford to experiment with Rempe at the NHL level.
While Rempe certainly deserves an opportunity to develop his game, that should happen at the AHL level. He’s got one more year to prove he can do it. Otherwise, the Rangers should just cut ties with the rugged forward.