Maata To Have Surgery For Tumor

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The Pittsburgh Penguins have today announced that defenseman Olli Maata will be undergoing surgery for a tumor in his neck. According to NHL.com, this type of tumor an 85% chance of being lower type thyroid cancer.

Maatta is not expected to undergo chemotherapy for this condition and the Penguins have suggested they expect him to be back with the team within four weeks after surgery. The 20 year old has been cleared to play up until then and has shown some great form this season so far and currently stands on 1 goal and five points in seven games.

The Penguins have advised that they were aware of his condition pre season, but Maatta wished to keep this news to himself. They have also praised his attitude and sheer concentration during this period. The Finn was quoted as saying "I feel healthy and I feel fine,the only thing that's different is that now I know that I maybe have cancer. And you know what? That's tough, but I don't think it's affected me much."

At the Consol Energy Center this Thursday, Pittsburgh will hold Hockey Fights Cancer night in their game against Los Angeles. We wish you a speedy recovery Olli, from both of us at The Fifth Liners.





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