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Matt Rempe Reports Thumb Recovery and Readies for Pivotal Rangers Camp

Improved hand function shown at a late‑July charity showcase increases pressure to win a bottom‑six roster spot in the final year of his contract.

Overview

  • Rempe said Thursday he is “extremely motivated” after offseason rehab and fully participated in the Shoulder Check Showcase, where he tested his surgically repaired thumb on the ice.
  • He fractured his thumb in a fight early in the 2025–26 season, underwent two surgeries and missed extended time before finishing last season with limited minutes and one goal.
  • Rempe says his hand is much improved and he has spent the summer rebuilding strength, skating and skills so he can return to the physical, momentum‑creating role he played previously.
  • Competition for Rempe’s bottom‑six role has grown while he was injured, with young forwards such as Jaroslav Chmelar and Adam Sykora earning opportunities that threaten his roster spot.
  • How Rempe performs at September training camp will shape whether the Rangers keep him on the NHL roster, expose him to waivers, or lean on younger options as he enters the final year before restricted free agency.