Ht/Wt: 6' 2"/198 lbs
Position: D
Team: London (OHL)

Olli Maatta's Player Profile

Strengths – Maatta is one of my favorite draft eligible players this year. He’s big, strong on his feet and is a good skater. He’s a very smart player, is almost always in perfect position and rarely gets caught jumping in offensively, but when he does his skating ability is often good enough to get back in the play. He’s one of the best defenseman in the draft in terms of playing in his own zone, and he showed in the playoffs he’s capable of producing offensively as well. His awareness and hockey sense are through the roof, and he’s very good at reading and reacting. He has a good shot, an above average first pass and in general is very good at both ends of the rink.

Weaknesses – Maatta is pretty well rounded, but one area he could improve in, especially given his size, is his physical game. He’s not soft, but he could certainly improve in that area. He needs to fill out his body more, too, but that will come with time.

Career Projection – First pairing (#2) defenseman – Given his size, talent and smarts Maatta projects to be a solid two-way first pairing defenseman. While I don’t think he will be good enough to anchor a defense core, I think he would be a great number two guy. Think Mike Richards, but from a defense point of view.
Submitted by: Todd Cordell of TheHockeyGuys

Maatta is a solid, two-way defenseman who does not possess any significant deficiencies. His excellent feet and agility allow him to stay with even the speediest of forwards, resulting in quality one-on-one defensive coverage and giving Maatta shutdown capabilities. Maatta is an aggressive defender, as he successfully takes away time and space from the opposing puck carrier by consistently closing the gap. Though he is not the type to stand up a player at the blue line, his strong frame and physical play make Maatta a tenacious defender along the boards. His attack mentality and ability to push opponents off the puck both lead to continuous success in the defensive end. Maatta is also unwavering in his decision making. He rapidly takes action whether he is in possession of the puck or pursuing it, though some might consider his getting rid of the puck so hastily at times a sign of impatience. There is no shortfall in Maatta’s offensive game either. He can make a clean first pass out of his end to initiate the counterattack, join the rush, or carry the puck into the attacking zone himself. Maatta’s sufficient point shot and and valuable passing skills provide him with key power play resources as well.
Written by: Kevin Hopson

A defenceman with a good frame. Very good overall skills, though better defensively. A very patient player who positions himself well. Excellent hockey sense. Doesn't usually go for big hits, but likes to play the body enough to steal the puck.
Written by: Matias Strozyk of EliteProspects.com

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Olli Maatta Videos

NHL 2012 Entry Draft Profile: Olli Määttä

Olli Maatta London Knights



Olli Maatta goal vs. Canada wjc pre-tournament



Olli Maatta vs Tyler Bertuzzi






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