Olli Maatta will remain with Penguins beyond 10-game mark

The 19-year-old defenseman still has junior eligibility and could have returned to the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League. Had Pittsburgh elected to do so, Maatta’s entry-level contract would have slid, which would have stalled the agreement from beginning. NHL teams have the option of playing junior eligible players in nine games before the first year of their contract begins.

Maatta has already participated in nine games, making it necessary for the Penguins to decide what their plans are.

Pittsburgh manager Ray Shero announced on Thursday that the organization believes Maatta is ready to play in the NHL, via the team’s website:

“Based on his play, we believe this is the best decision for Olli and the Penguins,” Shero said. “We want to thank Mark and Dale Hunter and the London Knights for their patience and understanding.”

Originally chosen with the No. 22 overall pick in the 2012 draft, Maatta has registered three points (goal, two assists) in nine games this season.

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