Key Takeaways:
– Matt Rempe’s low ice time during playoffs could push the Rangers into implementing a change in their lineup.
– Jonny Brodzinski, a better skater, may replace Rempe in the fourth forward line.
– Despite Rempe’s limited on-ice performance, the Rangers are undefeated in the playoffs and currently boast a 20-2-1 record when he’s included in the gameday roster.
– Filip Chytil could return to the Rangers’ lineup after recovering from a concussion.
Rolling On With Limited Play Time
The New York Rangers are currently in their second-round playoff series against the Carolina Hurricanes. Matt Rempe, one of their forwards, has clocked less than 40 minutes of playtime over six postseason games, as recorded by StatHead. This means that the Rangers have essentially been operating with an 11-man rotation of forwards. This low statistic puts Rempe above only Dallas Stars’ Nils Lundkvist in terms of playtime.
Addressing Rempe’s Limited Game Participation
Rangers’ head coach Peter Laviolette spoke about the issue in a press conference preceding Game 3. He stated that while he understood the expressions of concern, he assured that he’s considering a lineup that meets their needs best. He added that in playoff games, prioritizing winning is often the determining factor more than the minutes played.
Speculations on Rempe’s Future Participation in Playoffs
In the ongoing series against the Hurricanes, Rempe has had an underwhelming game performance, clocking in just over 11 minutes of total ice time out of a possible 147. This includes Game 2 which took two overtimes before Vincent Trocheck claimed a 4-3 win for the Hurricanes.
Adding to this, Rempe was noticeably absent from the ice during the final period of Game 2 and the overtime, a total of nearly 30 minutes. This has led to speculations that Laviolette may be considering a change in his lineup strategy.
However, Laviolette must tread carefully. Despite Rempe’s low on-ice production, his presence has proven vital to the team’s success as shown by the Rangers winning 15 consecutive games with him in the lineup. Even with minimal play time, Rempe’s antics are often the source of significant team morale boost.
Potential Changes in Lineup
Considering Rempe’s subpar performance in Game 2, a lineup change could be on the horizon. Using only 11 forwards out of an optimal 12, the Rangers might need to rethink their quick-shift approach.
Jonny Brodzinski, a superior skater, could be the ideal substitution for Rempe. Despite no participation this postseason so far, Brodzinski has a history of 158 regular-season games under his belt. His contribution to the team could increase the offensive production.
Return of Filip Chytil
Another noteworthy development for the Rangers could be the incorporation of Filip Chytil. Missing most of the regular-season games due to a concussion, Chytil logged 10 games this year before being side-lined. However, with his continuous recovery and recent team practices, Chytil could potentially return to strengthen the Rangers lineup.
Despite the speculations, the current strategy has proven effective for the Rangers so far, remaining undefeated in the playoffs. However, as the series continues, it will be a test on how Laviolette and his team navigate their forward rotation and overall performance.