Report: Mathieu Olivier's Trade Candidacy Takes Interesting Turn

Columbus Blue Jackets physical forward Mathieu Olivier has been mentioned on several trade boards this season as a candidate to be moved, as he is playing out his contract and is set to become an unrestricted free agent.

But an interesting turn of events is unfolding in Columbus, as according to Aaron Portzline in The Athletic, Jackets GM Don Waddell has other plans for Olivier—re-signing him to an extension.

In fact, Portzline has even laid out the supposed terms of an extension the two sides are negotiating.

Mutual interest expressed here: https://t.co/zKQntJCIFm

Three years, $10.5M - $3M, $3.5M, $4M. He’s making $1.1M right now. https://t.co/EAsBLWBAhL
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) December 2, 2024

Olivier is 4th in the league in penalty minutes (47) but has already surpassed his career high in goals, registering seven thus far, along with 10 points, which is only five off his career best in that category as well. He has earned a promotion into more playing time this season, with his 13:04 average ice time being almost two minutes above last year.

Portzline points out that former NHL enforcer John Scott, now of the “Dropping the Gloves” podcast, has called Olivier “the best in the business” at what he does.

New Columbus head coach Dean Evason is obviously also a big fan of Olivier.

Waddell, apparently, has no interest in giving up the player, despite the trade rumors and the significant interest around the league. He's already had initial conversations with Olivier's agent about an extension.

“They’re ready to talk when we are, so we’re going to get after (it) pretty soon,” Waddell said.

Portzline has heard that what they're discussing is a three-year deal worth $10.5M (a $3.5M AAV).

At this point, it sounds like it would take a pretty hefty offer to pry Olivier from the Jackets.