Born: 2003-10-26
Team: Jokerit U20
Position: Right Wing
Shoots: Right
Height / Weight: 6-3 / 187
REPORT: RUSSIA @ FINLAND, U18 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP, APRIL 28, 2021
Matikka had a very strong first shift of the game. He picked up loose pucks twice and used a cutback to buy some time and made a smart play to keep possession in the offensive zone. In his second shift he did a good job of clogging the wall to keep the play again in the offensive zone for the Finnish team. Despite playing just over eight minutes he had five shot attempts, including an excellent scoring chance but was robbed by the Russian goalie. He was a menace on the forecheck and showed the willingness to battle for pucks. His backchecking was good and consistent as well. On two occasions he carried the puck promisingly up the ice but was stopped by Russian defenders along the offensive blueline. Matikka has been a plus player on the Finnish team in this tournament and is a solid prospect for the 2022 NHL Draft.
REPORT: KIEKKO-VANTAA @ JOKERIT U18, SEPTEMBER 28, 2019
Matikka has been one of the most improved 2003 born players that I have evaluated thus far this season. The sizeable 6’1″ winger has a very good shot selection. He was firing one-timers from his off-wing on the power play and his wrist shot and slap shot are also powerful and accurate, featuring a quick release. Matikka has added pace to his game, he does not hold on to the puck or overhandle it nearly as often as last season. He made smart, simple passes and gave up the puck at the right times. Matikka is a solid skater with decent speed and has improved his balance and added more agility. His board and corner play was strong as he utilized his frame to maintain possession and win puck battles. He made a lot of plays today and finished the game with five assists.