With the signing of forward Mathieu Olivier to a six-year, $18 million contract extension, the Columbus Blue Jackets have strengthened their lineup and guaranteed his stay through the 2030–31 NHL season. 

Olivier’s Impact on the Ice

At 28, Olivier has emerged as a vital player for the Blue Jackets. With 12 goals and 9 assists this season, he has amassed 21 points in 61 games, setting career highs.

With 113 penalty minutes and 232 hits, he is second in the NHL, demonstrating his tough style of play.

Olivier has scored 22 goals and provided 26 assists in 181 games since joining Columbus in 2022, for a total of 48 points.

With 573 hits and 210 shots on goal during his time with the Blue Jackets, his aggressive style has made him a formidable presence on the ice.

Leadership and Work Ethic

The Blue Jackets President of Hockey Operations and General Manager, Don Waddell, highlighted Olivier’s importance by saying, “Mathieu Olivier has emerged as a key contributor on and off the ice thanks to his work ethic, dedication, leadership, and other intangibles that are critical to a team’s success.”

Olivier’s leadership and dedication have been crucial to the team’s dynamics in addition to his on-ice contributions. 

Career Journey

After being undrafted at first, Olivier signed a two-year entry-level contract with the Nashville Predators on May 1, 2019. He made his NHL debut in the 2019–20 season, playing eight games and recording five points and 70 penalty minutes in 30 appearances in 2020–21.

His move to Columbus in 2022 was a major step, and he has since established himself as a key member of the Blue Jackets’ lineup.  

Looking Ahead

Fans can anticipate Olivier’s maintained contributions as the Blue Jackets continue their season, both in terms of his performance and the guidance he offers to younger players.

Olivier’s commitment guarantees Columbus keeps a player who embodies the team’s values of hard work, physicality, and leadership.

The Blue Jackets hope to maintain stability and build upon the strengths of their current roster with this contract extension.