Matt Rempe has carved out a valuable niche for the Rangers in his “Agent Chaos” fourth-line role, meriting a spot in the opening lineup against Pittsburgh on Oct. 9. Yet, there’s a lingering question: Would Rempe’s value increase if he starts the season in Hartford? There, he could accrue significant ice time and adapt to a more dedicated checking role.
The Rangers face a challenging season ahead, with the ultimate goal of parading through the Canyon of Heroes. The journey to success can’t skip any steps, and the team’s core, established since the 2020-21 season, feels the pressure. The stakes are high—jobs are on the line.
With this in mind, it’s understandable why the team acquired 33-year-old Reilly Smith for a top-six wing position and signed 32-year-old Sam Carrick to fill the fourth-line center role left by Barclay Goodrow. However, if Rempe improves his skating and balance in the AHL, he could be a formidable force come playoff time.
Shifting Rempe to center may not be imminent, but encouraging head coach Peter Laviolette to keep an open mind and not succumb to early-season urgency could yield significant rewards. Rempe’s journey from a fringe player last year to a more confident contender showcases his dedication and potential.
“Last year, I surprised myself with how camp went, but this year I know my capabilities and want to showcase them,” Rempe told The Post. “I have to earn everything, that’s who I am.”
In the preseason, Rempe skated on the right side with Carrick and Adam Edstrom, hinting at a possible opening lineup. The true potential for the Rangers lies within their young players like Rempe, Alexis Lafreniere, Kaapo Kakko, Will Cuylle, K’Andre Miller, and Braden Schneider, who haven’t yet reached their ceilings.
If Rempe is sent to the Wolf Pack, the team risks losing a crucial component. It will be vital for Laviolette to give Rempe meaningful ice time and not limit him to the typical fourth-liner role. In his 17 games last year, he often spent more time in the penalty box than on the ice—this needs to change.
Laviolette’s challenge will be to balance veteran reliability with nurturing young talent, ensuring they are ready to lead when the playoffs begin. One promising youngster to watch is No. 73 — Matt Rempe.
Just consider the possibilities.
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