Olli Maatta's tumor was cancerous, but Pens d-man will be playing soon
Penguins defenseman Olli Maatta's thyroid tumor turned out to be cancerous, but the 20-year-old remains unfazed and is aiming to get back to the lineup before his projected return.
The Hockey News
Penguins sophomore defenseman Olli Maatta's recent surgery to remove a tumor on his thyroid gland revealed the tumor was cancerous, but Pittsburgh head coach Mike Johnston believes the 20-year-old will be playing again before his four-week recovery window expires.
Maatta, who appeared unfazed by the initial diagnosis in late October, skated with his Pens teammates Thursday and told reporters afterward he was happy the cancer was detected early and happier to refocus on his profession.
"It's not going to bother me again," Maatta said of the tumor. "It's just another bump in the road. I got over it. I can start playing hockey again."
We're sure not only Penguins fans are wishing him the best of luck.
