The Maven And Remy's Weekly Face-off: Where Matt Rempe Stands With The Rangers?

What is Matt Rempe’s future with the New York Rangers? Should Peter Laviolette give him an increased role?

Remy’s Opinion:

Matt Rempe may draw a lot of attention from the media and fans, but that doesn't mean he deserves to get big-time minutes.

Since arriving to New York in the middle of last season, Rempe has shown he can fight and bring some sort of physical spark and that’s about it.

While there is nothing wrong with that, Rempe is a fourth liner and coach Peter Laviolette shouldn’t attempt to make him anything more than that.

There is a reason why Rempe was benched for large parts of the playoffs. Laviolette just doesn't seem to trust the 21-year-old because he is a liability at times both offensively and defensively.

Maybe over time Rempe can develop into a more reliable forward who could play over ten minutes per game, but for now there is no evidence to prove he is capable or deserving of an increased role.

THEN, MAVEN REPLIES:

The problem with Matt Rempe is not with the player but rather the high command of Chris Drury and Peter Laviolette.

Neither the general manager nor the coach seem to grasp how fortunate they are to have this gem of a player dropped into their roster – FOR NOTHING!

No trade, no wheeling or dealing; the Calgary giant suddenly appeared and took the breath away from every Rangers fan who understands the game.

Rempe spent the summer working in every way to be a better player. The Maven is convinced that now he should be given the opportunity for FULL TIME WORK.

No, Lavvy, don't drop the big guy in here and there for five minutes of now-you-see-him- now-you-don't work. Give him a real shot and show more patience -- You, too,, Drury – and let him show his real worth.

Rempe is smarter than people think; he's a sponge, picking up ideas by the week. He can hit hard – and clean – he can screen goalies and he can intimidate – yes INTIMIDATE – the opposition with his mere presence. Plus, he can score.

But it can't – and won't – happen if he's treated like Bozo The Clown.

Put this worthy fellow on the third line, let him do his thing for a month and then come back and thank me for the good advice.