Matt Rempe comes clean on possibly taking less fights in 2nd NHL season

New York Rangers forward Matt Rempe plans to drop the gloves less often in the 2024-25 season in comparison to his rookie year in the NHL. Rempe talked about this at the NHLPA rookie showcase on Wednesday, mentioning about holistic improvements he wants to bring to his game.

When asked about fighting in the NHL and saying "no" to some fights, Rempe replied:

"But I really enjoy it... I don't know. I want to be a hockey player but it’s part of the game. It’s a nice tool to have.”

Having pugilistic skills can come in handy at times but the biggest criticism of Rempe’s playing style has been his one-dimensional approach. He is among the NHL enforcer types, a dying breed in today’s modern game.

That said, Rempe spent most of this summer honing his overall hockey skills. As reported by ESPN, Rempe reportedly spent significant time with teammate Chris Kreider and worked on drills such as forechecking and puck protection.

Standing at 6-foot-9, Rempe has the size to scare anyone on the ice. But if he can add solid hockey skills, he could also become a formidable force on the offense.

"The fighting is a very small part. I highly prioritize the skills, the skating, and everything. I've got to become a better player, so that's what I've got to work on. I've enjoyed it and I think I've taken big strides this summer."

Rangers fans can anticipate a new and improved Rempe hit the ice this fall.

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Matt Rempe learning to say “no” more often

In his first 17 NHL games, Rempe went toe-to-toe with fans who think that he’s too eager to keep fighting in games. But it seems like his willingness to drop the gloves comes from a place of respect.

"You've got to think that I'm 21 years old in the NHL and I have legends like [Matt] Martin and [Nicolas] Deslauriers, all those guys who want to fight. I'm in no position to say 'no' there," Rempe said.

It may seem counterintuitive, but Rempe is right. Facing off against veterans like Matt Martin and Nicolas Deslauriers is somewhat like a rite of passage he must go through to cement himself as an enforcer.

Then again, better judgment prevailed. Rempe discussed an occasion he declined to drop the gloves during the Ranger-Capitals first-round playoff matchup last postseason. Rempe passed on squaring off against Tom Wilson.

Rempe summed up his reasoning:

"In that scenario, we're up 2-0 in the series and we're up in that game, in Washington's barn. There's no benefit for me taking that fight."

Perhaps Wilson and Rempe will square off at some point this season. In the meantime, Rempe is more interested in becoming a better hockey player.