Olli Maatta has had a bit of a rough go in the NHL. While the talent and ability is certainly there, Olli’s development has been hindered because of health issues since his sophomore season. This doesn’t mean that the Sharks should underestimate him, as he is a defenseman that can execute effective breakout passes and make tape-to-tape passes in the offensive zone.
He was drafted out of the Ontario Hockey League in 2012. Maatta has plenty of playoff experience in his short NHL career, and if he stays healthy he has the potential to be a top defenseman in this league. He spends most of his ice time rounding out the Penguins top four with rugged blueliner Ben Lovejoy.
Name: Olli Maatta
Number/Position: #3 / Left Defense
Born: August 22, 1994 (21)
Birthplace: Jyvaskyla, Finland
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 205
Shoots: Left
Drafted: 1st Round (22nd overall) by Pittsburgh in 2012
Assets
Has excellent size and offensive instincts for the blueline position. Plays a smart game in all three zones on the ice. Is capable of logging big minutes.
Flaws
Despite his 6-2, 206-pound frame, he doesn’t initiate a lot of contact and can get pushes off the puck. So, he could stand to play a more aggressive game.
Career Potential
Talented big-minute defenseman with upside.
(Assets, Flaws and Career Potential via The Hockey News player page)
Hero Chart
Team Possession Chart
(courtesy of war-on-ice.com)
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