Matt Rempe wouldn't usually shy away from a challenge on the ice, he'd be ready to throw down with anyone who came knocking. But after a particularly telling bout with Ryan Reaves, Rempe learned that to last in the NHL, he'd need to pick his battles more wisely.
This evening, Rempe demonstrated exactly that kind of growth. Faced with an invitation to dance from Kurtis MacDermid, a known enforcer in the league, Rempe chose to stay his hand.
This decision not to engage MacDermid, a fearsome opponent, speaks volumes about Rempe's evolving approach to the game. While the anticipation of a showdown between these two was in the air, Rempe signaled that any future confrontations would happen on his own terms.
It's a mature move that suggests Rempe is playing the long game, focusing on his career longevity and team contribution over momentary bravado.