Rangers fourth-liner Matt Rempe logged under four minutes in his only game

The New York Rangers are navigating a difficult period on the roster as depth forward Matt Rempe remains largely benched. The 24-year-old has appeared in just one game since September 29 and has not played at all since October 13.

Rempe logged less than four minutes of ice time in his most recent appearance. He described the situation as tough during a session following Saturday’s practice in Tarrytown. He noted that the outcome is largely out of his control, so he focuses on his performance during practice sessions. He aims to be ready for a call during games when he does get the chance to play.

The player expressed frustration regarding his limited role. He attributed the issue partly to stylistic differences, though he emphasized the need to work hard to earn more ice time. He said he feels physically great despite appearing in only two of the Rangers’ first 14 games this season.

Rempe played in 26 games last season after a career-high 42 appearances in 2024-25. In that previous campaign, he recorded 67 penalty minutes. He cannot be sent to the American Hockey League without clearing waivers, a process that risks the team losing his services.

The Rangers are also managing the return of Joonas Korpisalo, who suffered a foot infection early in the regular season. The 32-year-old goalie completed his first full practice on Saturday after resuming skating the previous weekend. Head coach Mike Sullivan said the team is encouraged by Korpisalo’s progress but is still deciding on the best path to activate him.

Korpisalo has been sidelined for over a month, a period that coincided with a season-ending injury to Igor Shesterkin. This forced the club to use Dylan Garand in every game. Reimer, the current backup, was pulled after one period in the team’s last contest.

The squad faces four games in seven days starting Sunday against Edmonton at Madison Square Garden. Sullivan said he is unsure if Korpisalo will be available for that stretch or if he needs a game in the minor leagues first. Sean Durzi and Braden Schneider sat out Saturday practice due to maintenance and illness, respectively, while Eeli Tolvanen returned to the ice.