2023-05-22 22:50:44
At 26, Mathieu Olivier can finally say that he is a regular player in the National Hockey League (NHL).
The one who played 66 games in a Blue Jackets uniform during the 2022-2023 season looked back on the last campaign, during an interview with Jean-Charles Lajoie on Monday.
“The opportunity was good with Columbus. My discussions with them were very positive and it was very clear what they expected from me. The changes I decided to make last summer gave me a better chance of staying full time. My performance in camp and my improvement through the season has allowed me to establish myself.”
The former Nashville Predators worked hard to reach the Bettman circuit and he is a great role model for all the young people ignored in the draft who dream of achieving their dream.
“It’s a great accomplishment. I think it shows that players can develop in a different way. It’s longer for some, while we already know that others will play in the NHL for several years, from the age of 15 or 16. It’s not an exact science, but it’s good to see that you can still get there with perseverance.”
Despite everything, Olivier ensures that he does not take anything for granted in anticipation of the next season.
“In my head, I always feel like anything can happen. For me, the job is not done. It was a great first year, but we have to start all over again next year.”
The Blue Jackets striker, who stands out with his fighting skills, has faced many formidable opponents since the start of his career, but he admits that there is one who has given him more trouble than the others.
“It’s hard to say. Every fight plays out differently, no matter who it is. We know that Milan Lucic is one of the best in the league. My fight against him was quite open. It is a fight that took place very violently. So he’s the one that comes to mind for me, but these are all tough fights. The guys all know what they’re doing at this weight class.”
Watch the interview in question in the video above.
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