The New York Rangers face the Columbus Blue Jackets tonight at MSG. They are looking to start a new winning streak after Columbus ended New York’s 10-game win streak, 4-2 on Sunday. The Blueshirts look to return the favor. They are pretty cognizant of why the Blue Jackets burned their last game, putting pressure on the team’s defence to be vastly better in the neutral and in their own zone.
Two storylines stand out.
First, Kaapo Kakko returns to the first line alongside Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider, with Jimmy Vesey sliding back to the third line. This move is clearly more of a redo to see if this time it sticks, as Kakko has been with Zibanejad and Chris Kreider previously.
Per NaturalStatTrick.com, Kakko has skated with Zibanejad and Kreider for 184 minutes in 38 games, posting solid analytical numbers, as the trio has been good at generating shots and creating puck possession. Conversely, results do matter, not just process; as a line, the three have scored five goals while being on the ice for two goals against.
With the trade deadline about nine days away, this may be Kakko’s last chance to show he deserves a place with the big boys. If this attempt fails, he could be moved back to the third line, and the dynamic duo could be broken up due to their five-on-five struggles.
Second, and this should be an easy one, is Matt Rempe.
Depending on who you ask, the big, 6-foot-7 or 6-foot-8 as the winger has become the toast of the town. Tuesday’s practice brought a substantive influx of media, nearly all of whom came to see Rempe. Four fights in five games, including three against heavyweights, has drawn the attention of the national media.
The local media in New York all ran stories on Rempe in Wednesday’s newspapers. Through all this, Rempe is trying to stay balanced and keep a level head. From his comments, he seems to be doing so, which is not easy in the world’s media capital, and all eyes are upon him.
“I’m 21, so I’m going to play my heart out every time, every game, every practice,” Rempe said. “I love this game. … I love every aspect of it. I’d love to be a New York Ranger for a long time, but I want to take it day by day. I don’t know what tomorrow brings. I don’t know what the next day brings. If I just do my job, that’s all I can control.”
“I’m five games into my career,’’ he added. “I’ve got a long, long way to go. I’m trying to get better every day. Gotta put the work in. I want to show that I can play with skill, play hard, and play it any way. Play multiple ways. Play multiple positions, and be a good player and help this team win games.’’
“I’m just trying to stay off all media,’’ Rempe said. “I’ve got to focus on what got me here, and continue to do that … I’m just trying to keep a level head and just trying to stay down to earth.’’
The key for Rempe is to not turn into sideshow Bob. He is receiving fighting advice in the media from former Rangers Nick Fotiu and John Scott. One key will be to remember he does not have to take on all-comers all the time. Nor does he have to challenge someone every game.
Fighting is one aspect of his tool belt; his ability to be physical, use his solid skating ability to forecheck and be a presence in front of the net all contribute to what he brings to the table. If he can utilize those skills and fight when needed, he can better carve out a consistent role and spot on this team.
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