What Happened
Edmonton Oilers coach Mike Babcock has campaigned internally for more size and physicality in his forward group, and general manager Stan Bowman is now looking at the trade market to address it, according to Frank Seravalli of Sportsnet. One player Babcock is believed to admire is New York Rangers forward Matt Rempe. Seravalli notes Rempe has struggled to hold a regular role under both Peter Laviolette and Mike Sullivan, appearing in just two games this season.
Key Details
- Babcock wants more brawn in Edmonton's forward group, not just a change in mindset.
- Rempe, 24, is listed at 6-foot-9, 270 pounds with 11 career NHL fights.
- He has played 87 career games over four seasons, including two in 2026-27.
- Rempe averaged 6:46 of ice time in those two appearances.
- He is now waiver-eligible, a factor in the Rangers' roster management.
- Seravalli raises a mid-round pick as a possible cost for Rempe.
What It Means
Edmonton's interest appears less about adding a pure fighter than a deterrent, per Seravalli's reporting, with opponents less inclined to take liberties with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. The Oilers' lower forward lines are also described as similar in style, and Rempe would offer a change of pace. His limited usage in New York under two coaches suggests he could be available, though his waiver status complicates any move.
What's Next
Any Edmonton move would hinge on the Rangers' asking price and their own 23-man roster decisions, with Rempe's waiver eligibility part of the calculation. No trade has been reported.