The Rangers Must Protect Matt Rempe At Any Cost

Whatever The Rangers Do Moving Ahead, They Must Protect Matt Rempe. Whenever he plays, the odds overwhelmingly show that the Blueshirts win.

And when The Maven says "protect," I mean most of all keep him from being suspended again.

"Whether it's 'accidental' or on purpose," says The Old Scout, "the fact is that when Rempe plays – even if he does nothing – they come out with two points."

In Vegas last night he did something, he got an assist in the 2-1 win over the Knights.

"By the way," adds The Old Scout, "that's not luck. When the really BIG GUYS, like Rempe and Adam Edstrom are out there they intimidate without even trying to intimidate."

Let's face it, the Rangers could have permanently dumped Rempe on Hartford after his eight game suspension. The trick was – for whatever reason – they gave him another chance."

Rempe appreciates that and is determined – make that, more than very determined – to play according to Housekeeping Rules if not Good Housekeeping.

"I know," says The Remper, "that my next suspension could be for 20 games."

That explains his super motivation; that and the fact that this second straight win signals that things not only are looking up in the Rangers heads but also in the standings."

Plus, "The Reliables," starring Emperor Igor Shesterkin, has revived his Vezina Trophy form and is at least helping to carry the team.

"Shesty made the big saves when he had to," adds coach Peter Laviolette whose next challenge will be Tuesday in Colorado.

It may not seem like a big deal in print but until last night – the Blueshirts hadn't won two in row since November 19. It is and was a big deal.

"Playing hard defensively is the key," says Ryan Lindgren.

Iggy making 29 saves is the key, says The Maven.

But there's work to be done. Philly, Pitt and Columbus must be disposed of down the stretch not to mention the Islanders who won their third straight last night.

The Rangers could do likewise in Denver – with a big IF.

IF MATT REMPE PLAYS!