By Miguel Mike Medina
Photo Credit: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports
Mathieu Olivier’s contributions to the Columbus Blue Jackets have been massive. The organization rewards him with a six-year long-term contract worth 18 million.
Olivier is a key integral part in why the Blue Jackets have been succeeding thus far and making strides to become a contender in the Eastern Conference.
Olivier has 21 points this season in 61 games. In addition, he leads the league with 11 fights. He is arguably the heart and soul of the Blue Jackets, especially when we’re talking about toughness and grit.
The 28-year-old made his NHL debut in 2019. The organization hopes he can continue to lead the team to greater heights.
Sheldon Keefe Fined 25,000 for Bad Conduct
New Jersey Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe will get his money’s worth because of his recent behavior. Keefe was fined $25,000 for being unprofessional toward the officials during the third period last Sunday.
Vitek Vanecek is Heading to the Sunshine State
Goaltender Vitek Vanecek is going to play for the defending champions Florida Panthers. On Tuesday, Vanecek got traded from the San Jose Sharks for forward Patrick Giles.
Vanecek, also a former member of the New Jersey Devils, is in the final season of his three-year, 10 million contract. It’s been a rough season for the 29-year-old goalie. In 18 games, he has posted a record of 3-10-3 with a 3.88 goals-against average and a .882 save percentage.
In 181 career NHL games, he has started in 169 of them for three different teams. Vanecek’s record as a goaltender is 94-52-20, with a 2.82 GAA, a .903 save percentage, and nine shutouts.
Vanecek can redeem his performance by playing with a contender like the Panthers. His experience can be a great asset to the locker room.
Miguel Mike Medina is the publisher of The MMM Journal. He can be reached at medinamiguelmike@gmail.com and themmmjournal@gmail.com
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