Matt Rempe Faces Changes After Suspension
After facing a four-game suspension for a hit that resulted in unintended consequences, New York Rangers rookie forward Matt Rempe talked about changing his game. With his aggressive playing style under scrutiny, Rempe addressed the media to provide insights into his mindset and potential adjustments moving forward.
Rempe talks changing style of Rangers
Acknowledging his mistake, Rempe expressed remorse for the hit on Jonas Siegenthaler of the New Jersey Devils.
Obviously, watching back, I did (hit Siegenthaler)," he admitted. "I made a mistake I thought I hit the wall, but I ended up hitting him. That was unfortunate. I'm sorry about that.
In response to questions about altering his game, Rempe emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between playing hard and playing smart.
It was an accident. But you never want to see a guy get hurt or anything like that. I'm still going to play super hard; play the same way. I'm just going to make sure my hits are clean, like, keep everything compact, keep everything tight. It will be good. Just live and learn.
Reflecting on the lessons learned from the suspension, Rempe highlighted the need for better body control.
More control of my body, just stuff like that. If a guy is pulling out of a hit, just gotta be careful.
So, the Rangers held their own without Rempe, notching a 3-2-0 record in five games. Since making his debut in that epic outdoor Stadium Series game back in February, the Rangers have been on fire, going 8-2-1 in the 11 games he's played.
Rempe's got this reputation as a hard-hitting, yet his impact is irreplaceable. The fans at Madison Square Garden love their heroic enforcer. It's great he's aggressive, but sometimes, that aggressive play can get him in trouble, like that match penalty he got for elbowing Siegenthaler in his last game. It's a fine line he's got to walk.
Coach Peter Laviolette knows it, too. He's all for Rempe's physicality, but he's also been preaching the importance of playing bright and controlling things.
"He's a good hitter, and so he's got to make sure he's doing things the right way. Every other hit has been pretty good. They've been heavy and physical, and he brings that presence to the team.
As long as Rempe finds that balance, he's going to make a positive impact for the Rangers.
As he continues his journey in the NHL, his ability to adapt and evolve will be crucial for his growth and success on the ice.
Credit: Blades of Steel
| POLL | ||
23 MARS | 223 ANSWERS Matt Rempe Faces Changes After Suspension What's your opinion on Rempe's adjustment after his suspension? | ||
| I like his commitment to change | 120 | 53.8 % |
| I have lost respect for him | 103 | 46.2 % |
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