On Tuesday night, Matt Rempe stole the show in the New York Rangers’ 5-0 win over the Ottawa Senators.
Between Rempe’s offensive and physical play, all eyes were on the skating giant. In the third period, Rempe scored his first goal of the season, using a nifty backhand move.
Fans at Madison Square Garden went into a frenzy as thousands of people chanted Rempe’s name and rejoiced when his goal was announced.
For a 22-year-old who just started playing in the NHL last season, it’s a dream come true to get this sort of reception and it only inspires Rempe to be better.
“It was so special, to hear that in the Garden, it’s a special place,” Rempe said about hearing the fans chant his name. “Every game the fans are buzzing when I’m on the ice and it’s really special and that’s why I want to become a lot more than I am. Not only for myself, but I feel like I get an opportunity to do something special and I want to keep that going.”
This season Rempe has been sent up and down from the Hartford Wolf Pack of the American Hockey League.
However, the young enforcer is becoming a staple in the Rangers’ lineup as of late. He’s played in the past seven games and he continues to develop day-by-day.
“I just think I’m getting more comfortable with the puck,” Rempe said. “Being able to handle it better stuff like that. I’ve worked on my skating a lot. Just a working progress day-by-day. To be the player I want to be, I have a long way to go.”
On Wednesday, Rempe was the only player seen on the ice for New York’s optional skate, which just shows his determination to keep improving.
“There is no question he has gotten better and there is no question he still has work to do to get better,” Peter Laviolette said about Rempe. “You see it’s an optional today and he’s on the ice, working on things that can help his game. He’s putting in the time. He did this summer and he has every day since he’s been here. He’s been in the lineup and has been a positive influence for our team.”
The Rempe show is back on and everybody is just enjoying the ride.
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