BREAKING: New York Rangers Make Surprising Move With Matt Rempe after Horrible Display in the AHL

The New York Rangers made a bold decision with Matt Rempe following a disappointing stint in the AHL with the Hartford Wolfpack. Last week, the Rangers opted to send Rempe to the AHL after a rough season start. Over the summer, he trained diligently with his teammate and mentor, Chris Kreider, but had limited opportunities to show his progress. Except for two games in which he logged 3:40 and 7:37 of ice time, Rempe was a healthy scratch for the rest of the Rangers’ lineup.

Instead of leaving him on the bench, the Rangers decided he would benefit from more playing time in the AHL. However, in an unexpected move, the team recalled him to the NHL today.

According to Renaud Lavoie:

Fans were surprised to see Rempe return so soon after an unremarkable AHL stint, where he went scoreless with two shots on goal and posted a -3 rating in two games. Meanwhile, Jake Leschyshyn, who had filled Rempe’s spot in the Rangers lineup, was reassigned to the Wolfpack after being a healthy scratch in Saturday’s game against the Anaheim Ducks.

Adding Rempe to the lineup compels opposing teams to adjust their style. As a physical enforcer, he often forces players to rush their passes, creating scoring opportunities. His presence also energizes his bench with his aggressive play.

The Rangers are on the brink of a crucial game against the Washington Capitals, their first meeting since the Capitals were eliminated in last year’s opening playoff round. A loss would place the Capitals just one point behind the Rangers in the Metropolitan Division standings, while a win would propel the Rangers into first place over the New Jersey Devils.