Mathieu Olivier knows his role for the Blue Jackets, and he plays it like a true professional. Brought in two summers ago to provide protection in the ever toughening Metropolitan Division, he's done just that. This season, he's back with a vengeance - and more to prove.
Since being acquired from Nashville for a 4th round pick, Olivier has played 120 games in the union blue. In that time, he's scored 10 goals, 27 points, and added 151 minutes in penalties. In regards to his PIMs, he is what we expected him to be: an enforcer.
Aside from the pugilistic side of the game, Olivier has impressed me with his ability to play hockey. No, he's not likely going to go out and net 20 goals, 50 points, or win any awards for his all-around game.
But, he's been far from detrimental when he's on the ice. He's a good straight lines skater that pursues well on the fore-check. He's physical enough to be an assertive hitter, without taking too many bad penalties.
Olivier chips in some depth offense when opportunities come his way, but he doesn't stretch himself too far to try to score goals. He just keeps his game simple and efficient - exactly what you want in a physical fourth line player.
While he's been known around hockey as a tough player, this past season he established himself as one of the most feared fighters in the NHL by decisively beating up the league's newest folk hero: 6'7", 240 pound Matt Rempe of the New York Rangers.
That fight occurred just two minutes into the game, and helped spark one of the most complete team performances the Blue Jackets had all season. They defeated the Rangers 4-1 in that game, clearly with more energy in the crowd and on the bench. This is exactly what Olivier can bring to the lineup. He neutralized the threat from the other side, and helped his team focus on the hockey game.
What that fight showcased to me, was something Mathieu doesn't get enough credit for: his intelligence and commitment to his craft. He prepared himself for that fight against Rempe by studying his opponent and learning his weaknesses. Then, he exploited those weaknesses and did something not many people expected him to do, beating up a guy 6" taller and some 30 pounds heavier.
One bold prediction: Mathieu Olivier will earn Dean Evason's trust, and will set new career highs across the board.
This would mean setting new highs in goals (6+), assists (11+), points (16+), and penalty minutes (82+). This one will require Olivier staying healthy for the season, but otherwise, I don't see this as unattainable. Evason loves toughness and grit, and Mathieu brings both of those in bounties.
He'll also be reliable in the defensive zone because of his work ethic, if coached properly. I have confidence in the team being held more accountable and playing more physical. So if nothing else, even if he doesn't produce offensive numbers; I'd be willing to bet he'll eclipse his career highs in games played and penalty minutes.