Mike Sullivan discusses a realistic timeline for when Matt Rempe will return to the New York Rangers
Matt Rempe's timeline is becoming clearer, even if the New York Rangers are still preparing for patience.
Head coach Mike Sullivan spoke Tuesday about Rempe's recovery progress, offering the most detailed update since the 23-year-old forward landed on long-term injured reserve early in November. Rempe has been out since an upper-body injury suffered during a heated altercation with San Jose Sharks forward Ryan Reaves, a moment that immediately sidelined the 6-foot-9 winger and removed one of the Rangers' most imposing physical presences.
Sullivan confirmed that Rempe continues to take steps forward and has now rejoined the team in a non-contact capacity. He skated with the group in a red jersey earlier on Tuesday morning and is travelling to Chicago to continue practicing, a sign that the staff believes his conditioning and mobility are trending well. Still, Sullivan cautioned that full clearance is not imminent.
"Yeah, so now he's 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 and a non-contact jersey. That's what he was today. He'll participate like that and then obviously the final step is to get him into real game scenarios."
The timeline remains tied to Rempe's ability to absorb contact without setbacks, something the medical staff is monitoring closely. His LTIR placement keeps him out until he is fully ready, and the Rangers are not willing to rush a player whose style depends so much on physical engagement.
Rempe progressing, but Rangers won't accelerate his return
The update feels encouraging but realistic. Rempe's presence matters, he energizes shifts, pressures defenders and brings an edge the Rangers noticeably miss. However, Sullivan's tone suggests the team wants him completely healthy before reintroducing him to NHL pace. This injury has lingered longer than expected, and the Rangers understand reinjury would be a major setback.
For now, the path forward is simple, continue skating, build strength and wait for medical clearance. Once Rempe is allowed to absorb contact again, his return could move quickly.
Previously on NY Hockey Insider
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 9 | 98 ANSWERS Mike Sullivan discusses a realistic timeline for when Matt Rempe will return to the New York Rangers Will Matt Rempe return to the Rangers before the New Year? | ||
| Yes | 64 | 65.3 % |
| No | 25 | 25.5 % |
| Not sure | 9 | 9.2 % |
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