The New York Rangers have solidified a key component of their bottom-six forward group, announcing a two-year contract extension for power forward Matt Rempe. The deal, which carries an average annual value (AAV) of $975,000, ensures the towering 6-foot-9, 255-pound winger remains a fixture at Madison Square Garden through the 2026-27 season. This strategic move, confirmed by the Rangers on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, reflects the organization’s belief in Rempe’s unique impact and his potential for continued development.
Rempe, who was set to become a restricted free agent (RFA) on July 1, has quickly become a fan favorite and a distinctive presence in the NHL since making his debut during the 2024 NHL Stadium Series. His initial entry into the league was nothing short of a phenomenon, marked by an immediate willingness to engage in physical play, including several high-profile fights that endeared him to the Rangers faithful and sent ripples across the league.
Drafted by the Rangers in the sixth round (165th overall) of the 2020 NHL Draft, Rempe’s path to the NHL was not conventional. He spent parts of three seasons with the Hartford Wolf Pack, the Rangers’ AHL affiliate, honing his game. It was his call-up in February 2024 that truly launched his NHL career into the spotlight. In his debut at MetLife Stadium, he dropped the gloves with Matt Martin of the New York Islanders, instantly establishing his fearless approach.
While his statistical output has been modest – 10 points (4 goals, 6 assists) in 59 regular-season games across two seasons, plus one goal in 11 playoff games – Rempe’s value transcends traditional metrics. He led the Rangers with 19.64 hits per 60 minutes during the 2024-25 season, a figure that ranked sixth-most in the NHL among players with at least 40 games played. His overall hits per 60 minutes (22.12, minimum 50 games) rank fifth in the NHL since the start of the 2023-24 season. This physical presence is a crucial aspect of his game, wearing down opponents and creating space for his linemates.
Beyond the hits, Rempe became known for his fighting prowess. In his initial 17 NHL games during the 2023-24 season, he accumulated 71 penalty minutes. While he aimed to reduce his penalty minutes in the 2024-25 season (finishing with 67 PIM in 42 games), his willingness to engage remains a key part of his identity. He recorded six fighting majors for the Rangers during the 2024-25 regular season. This element of his game, reminiscent of “throwback” hockey, provides an emotional spark, deters opposing teams from taking liberties with Rangers’ star players, and can dramatically shift momentum in a game.
The two-year, $1.95 million deal, translating to an AAV of $975,000, is a shrewd piece of business for the Rangers. In an NHL landscape dominated by the salary cap, finding impactful players on team-friendly contracts is paramount. Rempe’s extension falls well below the league’s minimum salary for established veterans, providing the Rangers with excellent value for a player who brings a unique blend of physicality, energy, and intimidation.
This contract allows the Rangers to maintain their “physical edge” on the fourth line without committing significant cap space. It gives new head coach Mike Sullivan a reliable depth forward who can change the complexion of a game with a big hit or a timely fight. It also offers Rempe the opportunity to solidify his place in the NHL and continue to develop aspects of his game beyond just his physical play.
One of the narratives surrounding Rempe’s season was his journey to become a more well-rounded player. While his initial impact was largely driven by his physical confrontations, the Rangers coaching staff, including former head coach Peter Laviolette and now Mike Sullivan, emphasized the need for Rempe to play a more disciplined and consistent game. After struggling to find his footing at the very start of the 2024-25 campaign, Rempe spent some time with the Hartford Wolf Pack in the AHL, a period he credits with helping him develop.
During his time in Hartford, Rempe played in all situations, including at center and seeing increased ice time, allowing him to work on his puck skills, defensive positioning, and overall hockey sense. He returned to the NHL with a more refined game, becoming a consistent presence on the fourth line. While he was suspended for eight games in December 2024 for an elbow to Miro Heiskanen, he showed improved discipline after that, reducing the frequency of his penalties and focusing on making impactful, clean hits.
The Rangers are looking for Rempe to continue this growth. His size and reach make him an effective forechecker, and his presence around the net can create chaos for opposing defenses. While he may never be a high-scoring forward, his ability to win puck battles, finish checks, and draw attention provides valuable secondary contributions. His waiver eligibility for the upcoming 2025-26 season means he will likely need to earn a consistent NHL roster spot out of training camp, but the contract extension signals the organization’s commitment to his development.
The re-signing of Matt Rempe also fits into the Rangers’ broader offseason strategy. With key restricted free agents like Will Cuylle and K’Andre Miller also needing new contracts, securing Rempe at a low cap hit provides crucial flexibility. The recent trade of long-time winger Chris Kreider to the Anaheim Ducks also cleared significant cap space, allowing the Rangers to maneuver and address other roster needs, including potential free agency signings and further re-signings.
Rempe’s extension ensures the Rangers retain a distinctive element of their team identity. In an increasingly skilled and fast league, having a player who can bring raw physicality and protect teammates is still highly valued. The crowd at Madison Square Garden lights up every time Rempe steps onto the ice, sensing the potential for a momentum-shifting hit or an exhilarating fight. This intangible energy and the emotional lift he provides are difficult to quantify but are undeniably important to team morale and fan engagement.
In conclusion, Matt Rempe’s two-year, sub-$1 million contract extension is more than just a routine re-signing. It’s a testament to his rapid ascent in the NHL, the unique role he fills for the New York Rangers, and the organization’s strategic approach to building a competitive, well-rounded roster. For a player who defied the odds as a late-round pick, this new deal signals a vote of confidence and an opportunity for Rempe to continue making his mark as a formidable and impactful presence in the National Hockey League.
