Matt Rempe’s return to the lineup with the Rangers was cut short as he was sent back down to AHL Hartford after just one game. The popular forward had been called up for the team’s recent 5-2 loss to the Blues at Madison Square Garden, marking only his fourth game of the season and first since October 29th.
The opportunity for Rempe to play came as a result of Filip Chytil and Chris Kreider being out due to upper-body injuries. Kreider missed Monday’s game against the Blues, while Chytil’s return is expected during the upcoming road trip starting with a game against the Hurricanes on Wednesday.
In addition to Rempe, rookie Brett Berard also got the chance to make his NHL debut on Monday and was able to contribute with an assist. Despite playing a season-high 9:26 of ice time, Rempe’s performance was marred by a roughing penalty in the third period, which was deemed unnecessary and silly by many.
To fill the gap left by Rempe’s return to Hartford, the Rangers called up defenseman Chad Ruhwedel. The team continues to navigate through injuries and lineup changes as they strive to maintain their competitive edge in the league.
As the Rangers move forward, it will be interesting to see how the team adjusts to the return of key players like Chytil and Kreider, and how the younger talents like Rempe and Berard will continue to develop and contribute to the team’s success. The ups and downs of roster changes are all part of the game, and the Rangers will need to make the most of every opportunity to secure wins as the season progresses.
