New York Rangers' Matt Rempe Returns to Practice After Injury

Matt Rempe, a center for the New York Rangers, has returned to group practices while wearing a non-contact jersey for the first time since being placed on long-term injured reserve. Head coach Mike Sullivan confirmed on December 9, 2025, that Rempe has resumed skating with the team's skills coaches and participated in practice in a non-contact capacity. This update follows Rempe's injury sustained during an on-ice altercation with Ryan Reaves of the San Jose Sharks in late October.

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Rempe's injury has been classified as upper body, with speculation suggesting he may have suffered a broken thumb. Observers noted that during the fight with Reaves, Rempe's hand appeared to make significant contact with Reaves' helmet, which could have contributed to the injury. Sullivan indicated that the next steps for Rempe involve further participation in team practices before transitioning to game scenarios.

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At 23 years old, Matt Rempe stands 6-foot-9 and weighs 261 pounds. He was selected in the sixth round of the 2020 NHL Draft and has accumulated 11 points in his NHL career, including five goals and six assists. This season, he has played nine games, scoring one goal and maintaining a plus-1 rating. Rempe primarily plays alongside Adam Edström and Sam Carrick and is also a member of the Rangers' second power-play unit. His engaging style of play has made him a fan favorite in New York.

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Mike Sullivan expressed optimism regarding Rempe's recovery, stating, "He skated a fair amount on his own with our skills coaches. The next step is to get him around the group in a team setting in a non-contact jersey." Sullivan's comments reflect the team's cautious approach to Rempe's reintegration into full-contact practices and games.

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The New York Rangers currently hold a record of 15-12-4 and are positioned with 34 points in the Metropolitan Division. They are scheduled to face the Chicago Blackhawks on December 10, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. EST. Rempe's potential return to full practice and gameplay could significantly impact the team's performance as they navigate the season.

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While the Rangers have expressed confidence in Rempe's recovery, some analysts have raised concerns about the long-term implications of his injury, particularly regarding the physical demands of his playing style. Critics argue that the nature of his role as an enforcer may lead to recurring injuries, which could affect his career longevity.

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• “He skated a fair amount on his own with our skills coaches. The next step is to get him around the group in a team setting in a non-contact jersey, that's what he was today,” — Mike Sullivan, Head Coach, New York Rangers.

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