Rangers’ Matt Rempe Sidelined with Upper-Body Injury, Listed as Week-to-Week
In a tough blow for the New York Rangers, 22-year-old forward and fan-favorite enforcer Matt Rempe has been ruled week to week with an upper-body injury, as reported by Mollie Walker of the New York Post on Thursday.
Impact on the Rangers’ Playoff Push
With the Rangers in the thick of the Eastern Conference wild-card race, losing Rempe for an extended period comes at a critical time. The injury means he will miss the remainder of the team’s California road trip and potentially more games beyond that. With only 10 regular-season contests remaining, it remains uncertain how many he will be forced to sit out.
Rempe was in action Tuesday night against the Los Angeles Kings, where he fought Tanner Jeannot during the Rangers’ 3-1 loss. He took a hard fall after losing his balance, which many speculate is when he sustained the injury. However, the team has not provided specific details on the exact moment or nature of the injury.
Lineup Adjustments
Through 36 games this season, Rempe has contributed two goals, three assists, and five points while averaging 7:59 minutes of ice time. In his absence, rookie Brett Berard is expected to step into the lineup, while Nicolas Aube-Kubel—recently recalled from the Hartford Wolf Pack—will likely remain with the team.
A Setback at the Worst Time
The timing of Rempe’s injury couldn’t be worse for the Rangers, who are fighting to secure a playoff spot. His physicality and energy have been key assets to the team, making his absence even more significant. Adding to the emotional weight of the situation, recent reports suggested that Rempe was on the verge of signing a contract extension, further solidifying his future with the organization.
Looking Ahead
The Rangers continue their road trip with matchups against the Anaheim Ducks on Friday (10:00 p.m. EST) and the San Jose Sharks on Saturday (10:30 p.m. EST) before returning home to face the Minnesota Wild at Madison Square Garden on April 2nd. With Rempe sidelined, the Rangers will need to find other ways to maintain their physical presence and intensity as they push for a postseason berth.
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