The Detroit Red Wings made a move on Tuesday night by trading veteran defenseman Olli Maatta to the Utah Hockey Club. This trade comes as the newest NHL team, Utah, is facing significant injuries on its blue line.
In exchange for Maatta, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent after this season, Detroit received a 2025 third-round draft pick from Utah. Maatta, 30 years old, had played seven games for the Red Wings this season, averaging just under 16 minutes of ice time on the third defensive pairing. While he has yet to record a point this season, Maatta had a solid offensive output last season with four goals and 14 assists in 72 games.
Having played for multiple NHL teams over his 12-year career, including Detroit, Los Angeles, Chicago, and the Pittsburgh Penguins, Maatta brings a wealth of experience to the Utah Hockey Club. Notably, he won two Stanley Cups during his time with the Penguins, where he was teammates with current Utah defenseman Ian Cole.
Utah’s decision to acquire Maatta comes at a crucial time for the team, which has struggled in recent games after a promising start to their inaugural season in Salt Lake City. The team’s defense has been particularly hard-hit by injuries, with defenseman Sean Durzi undergoing shoulder surgery and expected to be out for several months. Additionally, John Marino, acquired from New Jersey in the offseason, has yet to make his debut for Utah due to a back injury that required surgery.
With Maatta now in the mix, Utah gains a seasoned veteran to bolster its defensive lineup, providing leadership and stability as the team navigates through a challenging stretch. On the other hand, Detroit benefits from shedding Maatta’s salary and gaining a valuable draft pick in return. This trade represents a strategic move for both teams, addressing immediate needs and setting the stage for potential future success.