Olli Maatta Near Ready to Play As Opener Draws Near
PITTSBURGH (93-7 The FAN) - Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Olli Maatta suffered a shoulder injury in April last season, fought through it, had off-season surgery and likely will return for the opener on Thursday.
"He does need final medical clearance, but I expect that he's pretty well ready to play on Thursday," according to head coach Mike Johnston.
"We knew it wouldn't be realistic to be ready for camp, but still I think the trainers have done a great job with the rehab with me and I'm really happy how it's gone," Maatta said.
Maatta didn't play in a preseason game, but said he's been pushing it "real hard" during practice and has been getting some game-like contact.
"Part of it is mental," Maatta said. "When you get that hit and you see it's alright. That kind of clicks in that you're fine to play."
Now in his second year, Maatta said it is different for him this year, saying he felt more comfortable and "felt like you were coming home and coming back to some old friends." Maatta likes the new system under Johnston and says it should be good for their defensemen to move the puck more. Maatta has also been paired during workouts with veteran Paul Martin
"You can put anyone with Paul and you'll be good. He's that good of a player."
Olli Maatta
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