In a strategic move to bolster their roster amid a wave of injuries, the Detroit Red Wings have traded seasoned defenseman Olli Maatta to the Utah Hockey Club. This deal marks a significant step for the NHL’s latest franchise as they work to shore up their beleaguered blue line.
In exchange for Maatta, who carries a $3 million cap hit and will be an unrestricted free agent after this season, Utah sent a third-round draft pick for 2025—previously acquired from the New York Rangers—back to Detroit.
At 30 years old, Maatta has appeared in seven games this season, averaging nearly 16 minutes on the ice with the Red Wings’ third defensive pairing. While he has yet to score this season, he contributed four goals and 14 assists in 72 games during the 2023-24 campaign. Having played 691 NHL games in his career across teams like Detroit, Los Angeles, Chicago, and the Pittsburgh Penguins—where he celebrated two Stanley Cup victories—Maatta brings a wealth of experience. Notably, he reunites with Ian Cole, a former teammate from his championship days in Pittsburgh.
Following a promising start to their inaugural season in Salt Lake City, Utah has stumbled, going 1-4-2 in their last seven matches. This early-season transaction could provide the shake-up they need, particularly in light of critical injuries to their defense.
Utah’s Sean Durzi recently underwent right shoulder surgery and is expected to be sidelined for four to six months. Durzi had been a standout scorer among defensemen for the Arizona Coyotes before joining Utah. Additionally, the team is still reeling from the loss of John Marino, who had been acquired from New Jersey but has yet to skate this season due to a back injury that required surgery last week, keeping him out for three to four months.
With Maatta now in the fold, Utah gains a veteran presence to stabilize their defensive lineup, while Detroit benefits by shedding salary and acquiring a valuable draft pick in the process.
