Detroit Red Wings coach Derek Lalonde recently expressed a desire to give rookie defenseman Albert Johansson more ice time. Just a few days later, the team made a move to create that opportunity.
Red Wings Trade Olli Maatta to Utah Grizzlies for 2025 Draft Pick
On Tuesday, the Detroit Red Wings announced they traded veteran defenseman Olli Maatta to the Utah Grizzlies in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. This move opens the door for Johansson and Justin Holl to see increased playing time on the blue line.
UPDATE: The #RedWings have traded defenseman Olli Maatta to the Utah Hockey Club in exchange for a 3rd round pick in 2025. pic.twitter.com/XUy7a6TvpM
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) October 30, 2024
“We talked about Justin (Holl) getting an opportunity and Albert Johansson (getting) an opportunity,” Lalonde said.
Holl and Johansson Earn More Playing Time
Both Holl, who was used sparingly last season, and Johansson have made a positive impact when given playing time this season.
“He can be sticky at times, he can defend,” Lalonde said of Holl. “Some of the things we ask our group to improve on – box-outs, gaps – he does. So we’ve been happy with him. He’s helped us.
Johansson’s performance in his first NHL game was praised by many, including Ryan Hana of The Athletic:
Small moment but nice, steady play on defense by Albert Johansson in his 1st career NHL game. #LGRW pic.twitter.com/ifyjFQWlV6
— Ryan Hana (@RyanHanaWWP) October 13, 2024
While Maatta may have some offensive upside, he’s a similar player to Johansson in terms of consistency and reliability. Both are solid third-pairing defensemen.
Roster Flexibility and Future Plans
Maatta was in the final year of his contract and unlikely to be re-signed by the Red Wings. This trade allows the team to acquire a draft pick rather than losing him for nothing at the end of the season.
The move also creates roster space to activate injured forward Tyler Motte, meaning center Marco Kasper can remain with the NHL team.
The Detroit Red Wings are looking to the future, and this trade is a step in the right direction.
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