Red Wings Rumors: Olli Maatta Could Be Moved This Summer

This offseason, the Detroit Red Wings find themselves at a crossroads, tasked with reshaping their roster while navigating a tight salary cap situation.

One avenue they're exploring involves defenseman Olli Maatta, who enters the final year of his contract with a $3 million cap hit.

This past season, the 29-year-old recorded four goals, 18 total points, a +14 plus/minus rating, and 96 blocked shots across 72 games played.

Olli Maatta takes advantage of the Leafs turnover with a goal on the breakaway, giving Detroit the early lead!#LGRW pic.twitter.com/pVTQ1tXhJV

— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) April 2, 2023

Despite his experience, Maatta is projected for a down-lineup role next season, making him a potential candidate for a trade to alleviate financial pressure and create cap flexibility.

With about eight roster spots to fill, shedding Maatta's contract could provide the Red Wings with the room they need to address other areas of need and make strategic additions to their lineup.

Olli Maatta, signed to a 2x$3M extension by DET, is a capable third-pair defensive defenceman. #LGRW pic.twitter.com/75yYTggPgK

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) February 16, 2023

General Manager Steve Yzerman may look to leverage Maatta's solid defensive abilities and NHL pedigree to facilitate a trade with teams in need of blue line depth.

Over the past five seasons, Maatta has put up 15 goals, 55 assists, 70 total points, a +14 plus/minus rating and 481 blocked shots across 322 games played.

He was the 22nd overall selection in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft by the Pittsburgh Penguins. Photo Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports