New Jersey Devils defenseman Brett Pesce made headlines following his appearance at the Shoulder Check Showcase on July 24, 2025.
The annual charity event, founded to honor the late Hayden Thorsen, promotes mental health awareness in the hockey community. Thorsen was a 16-year-old goalie from the tri-state area who tragically died by suicide on May 26, 2022. He dreamed of playing hockey at the next level, and this showcase continues his legacy with the powerful message: "Reach Out. Check In. Make Contact."
While the event is typically lighthearted, one moment brought unexpected tension. New York Rangers forward Matt Rempe made headlines of his own, nearly leveling Pesce into the boards with a near-hit, taking the “make contact” part of the slogan a little too literally.
The Shoulder Check Showcase brings together players from across the NHL, emphasizing unity and support beyond team rivalries. Pesce was the only Devils player in attendance, while six New York Rangers participated, including Rempe.
Despite the charitable nature of the game, Rempe’s play stood out, particularly his physical exchange with Pesce.
Rempe, known for his enforcer style, has racked up 138 penalty minutes in just 59 NHL games. The 23-year-old recently signed a two-year, $1.95 million extension with the Rangers. While some fans in the crowd cheered his gritty play, others criticized his actions as out of place for an event centered on mental health awareness.
Despite the debatable moment, the showcase delivered on its greater mission. In a powerful scene at Terry Conners Rink, a sold-out crowd placed their hands on each other’s shoulders and recited the event’s six-word slogan aloud in unison, symbolizing support, community, and solidarity.
Rob Thorsen, Hayden’s father, reflected on the moment in an interview with NHL.com:
"We thought it would be cool if we could get people to put their hands on each other's shoulders," Thorsen said. "When it actually happened, it was palpable. Everybody left feeling it, and that was awesome."
In the end, the Shoulder Check Showcase reminded the hockey world that no one has to face their battles alone. Rivalries faded, teams mixed, and the sport united for a cause far bigger than the scoreboard.
Photo Credit: © Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images