Rangers defenseman Matt Rempe has played under four minutes in a month

Matt Rempe has accumulated fewer than four minutes of ice time since September 29, and has not appeared in a game since October 13. The 6-foot-9 defenseman is currently listed as a fourth-liner for the New York Rangers.

Rempe described his situation as tough during a practice session in Tarrytown on Saturday. He noted that the lack of playing time is largely out of his control. He said his focus is on performing well in practice so he is prepared if the coaching staff calls on him during a game.

The 24-year-old expressed frustration over his limited role. He suggested the issue is stylistic. Rempe stated his goal is to continue improving so he can earn more runway when an opportunity arises. He added that he feels physically great despite appearing in only two of the team's first 14 games this season.

A logistical hurdle prevents the Rangers from simply sending Rempe to their American Hockey League affiliate. He must clear waivers, which carries the risk that another team could claim him. In the 2024-25 season, Rempe played a career-high 42 games and collected 67 penalty minutes. He appeared in 26 games last year.

Goalie Joonas Korpisalo returned to full practice on Saturday. He had been sidelined for over a month following a foot infection that began at the start of the regular season. He resumed skating the previous weekend and practiced briefly on Friday.

Head coach Mike Sullivan said the team is encouraged by Korpisalo's progress but is still determining the best path for his return. Sullivan indicated the club may need to decide if Korpisalo is ready for the upcoming schedule or if he should play in the AHL first. The Rangers have four games in seven days starting Sunday against Edmonton at Madison Square Garden.

Korpisalo's absence and a season-ending injury to Igor Shesterkin have required Dylan Garand to start every game this season. Backup James Reimer was pulled after one period in the previous game. Sean Durzi and Braden Schneider missed Saturday's practice due to maintenance and illness, respectively. Eeli Tolvanen returned to practice after a personal absence.