Oct 25, 2014; Nashville, TN, USA; Nashville Predators left wing Taylor Beck (41) fights for possession with Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Olli Maatta (3) during the third period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joshua Lindsey-USA TODAY Sports
Olli Maatta
Maatta may not be what you consider unproven, considering he played 80 regular season games two years ago and played admirably. Admirably enough that the Pittsburgh Penguins kept him on the roster as a 19-year old kid.
In 2015-16, Maatta is expected to take over top-pairing minutes. This coming season will be a huge test for the youngster as he is essentially replacing Paul Martin in the Pens’ defensive corps. Can he handle that pressure?
We already know that he has the physical skills and hockey IQ to do so. We also know that he has worked through a cancerous tumor in his neck and a season-ending shoulder surgery. At his age, his maturity and ability to deal with these circumstances is nothing short of amazing and impressive.
I have zero doubt that Olli Maatta will be exactly what we’ve all expected this coming season. Now, it’s up to him to continue his brilliance and prove it.
Next: Matt Cullen - What He Means to the Pens' Youth