Report: Mathieu Olivier To Sign Long-Term Extension With Columbus

Monday, March 03, 2025

 


Not that the Columbus Blue Jackets ever had any intention of trading him, but you can scratch Mathieu Olivier's name off your trade boards. A long-term extension, reportedly of at least four years, is just about done with the pending UFA, keeping him in Columbus for some time to come. 

Aaron Portzline reports in The Athletic that the bruising forward, who has combined his brute force with some secondary scoring this season, is finalizing a deal to stay in Columbus. “We’re hoping to get it wrapped up in the 24 hours or so," said GM Don Waddell on Monday.

Waddell knew he had to do whatever he could to lock up the 6'1" forward. 

“He’s an unrestricted free agent who would be welcomed by 31 other teams,” Waddell said, “and I have to take all of that into account in trying to sign him. So it’s been time-consuming, but in a positive way.”

As for Olivier, he's thrilled to be able to stay long-term with the Blue Jackets.

“I’ve said this multiple times: I love Columbus. My family loves Columbus. Everything about it works well with our family and our values,” Olivier said. “The direction the organization is going is great. The guys we have in this room, what we’re building… I take a lot of pride in that , and I want to see it through with these guys in here. 

Olivier has career highs with 12 goals and 21 points this season, while stepping up his physical presence on the ice to new heights as well. He's second in the NHL with 228 hits in just 60 games, already 50 more than his previous career best. He leads the league in fighting majors with 11, and his 99 penalty minutes are third in the NHL.

Needless to say, he is one tough customer. 

And within the next 24 hours, a well-paid one, as well. 

Photo: © Danny Wild-Imagn Images

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