The Utah Hockey Club has reached an agreement with Finnish defenseman Olli Maatta on a three-year contract extension, announced on Monday. This deal underlines the club’s appreciation for Maatta’s contributions, particularly his role in keeping the team in contention for a playoff berth in the Western Conference. The contract is valued at $10.5 million according to a source with knowledge of the details, who wishes to remain anonymous as the financial terms were not made public. Maatta’s new agreement, which starts next season, will feature a $3.5 million salary cap impact annually until the end of the 2027-2028 season.
“Olli is a smart defenseman and a true professional on and off the ice,” remarked Bill Armstrong, Utah’s general manager, through a statement. “His presence has brought stability to our roster; his work ethic and influence serve as exemplary models for our team’s younger players. We’re thrilled to have him remain a key pillar of our lineup going forward.”
At 30, Maatta has excelled in the 51 games he has played for Utah since being acquired via trade from Detroit last October. With two goals and 12 assists resulting in 14 points, Maatta has maintained an impressive average of nearly 21 minutes on the ice per game.
“Olli has made an immediate and evident impact and left a positive impression on everyone associated with our organization,” shared Chris Armstrong, president of hockey operations. “He significantly contributes to the culture and standards we are cultivating within our team. We are appreciative of the commitment he has shown towards our franchise.”
Throughout his NHL career, Maatta has been part of five different teams. Initially drafted by Pittsburgh in the first round in 2012, he captured two Stanley Cup championships with the Penguins in 2016 and 2017 before being traded to Chicago in 2019. Maatta has played for the Blackhawks, the Los Angeles Kings, and Detroit Red Wings during subsequent stints. Following his debut in 2013, he has since participated in 827 combined regular-season and playoff games. Recently, Maatta represented Finland in the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament.
“Congrats Olli,” expressed team owner Ryan Smith on social media. “We truly value what you contribute to this organization.”
Formerly known as the Arizona Coyotes before their relocation to Salt Lake City, Utah, the team is currently two points behind the final wild-card spot in the Western Conference, with 21 games remaining in the season. The organization, under new leadership from Smith, is considering new options for a permanent franchise name, including Utah Mammoth, Utah Hockey Club, and Utah Outlaws.
