The Columbus Blue Jackets snapped a three-game losing streak with a convincing 5-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators. Mathieu Olivier and Justin Danforth each contributed a goal and an assist, while Dmitri Voronkov, Sean Monahan, and the highly-touted rookie Adam Fantilli also found the back of the net.

Elvis Merzlikins was pivotal in goal, stopping 33 shots to secure the win. The Blue Jackets, who had struggled on the power play, redeemed themselves going 3 for 3 against the Senators. Ottawa, despite their playoff berth clinched earlier, fell short as Thomas Chabot and Fabian Zetterlund scored.

Mathieu Olivier has secured a six-year contract worth $18 million with the Columbus Blue Jackets, providing them with a solid presence both on and off the ice. The 28-year-old forward, who has been a vital contributor with 21 points in 61 games this season, emphasizes the Blue Jackets' strategy of retaining key players. General manager Don Waddell expressed delight at Olivier's commitment, underlining the significance of his leadership and work ethic to the team's success.

Since being signed as an undrafted free agent by the Nashville Predators in 2019, Olivier has made a notable impact, accumulating 55 points in 229 regular-season games. Traded to the Blue Jackets last year, he has quickly established himself as a key player. With the trade deadline approaching, the Blue Jackets are currently positioned for a playoff spot, holding the first wild card in the Eastern Conference.

The Buffalo Sabres appear to have turned a corner with a four-game winning streak, notably highlighted by a physical altercation in their recent match against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Defenseman Dennis Gilbert's fight with Mathieu Olivier sent a clear message to the league, reflecting the team's desire to protect their star player, Tage Thompson, following a previous dirty hit against him by Stefan Noesen of the New Jersey Devils.

Olivier acknowledged the necessity of the fight, stating it was essential to ensure the Sabres did not target his team in retaliation. This moment of grit may well signify a shift in the Sabres' culture, emphasizing their determination to stand up for themselves on the ice.