Matt Rempe has a lot to prove in pivotal Rangers training camp

The most important part of Matt Rempe’s offseason was getting his hand right. After undergoing two surgeries to repair a broken thumb last season — and attempting to return to the ice too soon in between — Rempe spent the summer regaining the full function of his hand and strengthening it. Though Rempe worked on his skating skills as well, the primary focus had to be on his hand following a tumultuous recovery that diminished Rempe’s game and sidelined him for a majority of last season. At a critical time in his development, the 6-foot-9 forward was put on pause in 2025-26. Now, some of his former Wolf Pack teammates will be going toe-to-toe with him in training camp for a spot in the Rangers bottom six. Nothing is guaranteed for Rempe going forward.He’s about to enter the last year of his contract. As swiftly as his NHL notoriety came, his NHL chance could dissipate. “Extremely motivated,” Rempe said Thursday before the Shoulder Check Showcase event at Martire Family Arena on Sacred Heart University’s campus.

“I played nine games, and after that, I was shelved.I got a lot to prove.

I got to showcase myself and come back a lot stronger.Most motivated you can be.” Asked if his hand was feeling 100 percent, Rempe said there was “still a little work to be done.” His timeline certainly was extended by a premature return to the lineup in December, when Rempe said he still was unable to grip his stick properly.

Rempe admitted he has to be more honest about how his injuries are feeling, noting the whole process was a learning experience for him. “Still some time until the season,” he said.“We’re in a really good spot.”Since Rempe is no longer waiver-exempt, the Rangers may prioritize keeping the 24-year-old on the roster out of training camp to avoid losing him for nothing.

If, say, Jaroslav Chmelar skates circles around him in preseason, however, it might be a risk the organization has to take.  Get Mollie Walker’s text...