Tom Wilson Calls Out Mathieu Olivier’s Hit on Declan Chisholm: ‘I’d Be Banned for Life for That Move!’

Friday night’s matchup between the Washington Capitals and the Columbus Blue Jackets took an unexpected turn in the third period. Blue Jackets forward Mathieu Olivier received a five-minute major penalty for elbowing Capitals defenseman Declan Chisholm.

Chisholm left the ice, clutching his face, while Olivier argued from the penalty box as referees upheld their call after a review. Blue Jackets coach Dean Evason voiced his disagreement, insisting the hit shouldn’t have been a penalty.

When the officials announced the penalty, the crowd at Nationwide Arena erupted. Olivier protested, claiming he didn’t use his elbow during the check.

With the extended power play, the Capitals seized the opportunity, scoring two goals—one from Tom Wilson and another from Connor McMichael. Chisholm returned to the ice unharmed, contributing to the power play.

After Wilson’s goal, he spoke with Blue Jackets defender Erik Gudbranson about the hit on Chisholm. Jody Shelley, a former NHL player and current commentator for FanDuel Sports Network Ohio, shared their exchange on the broadcast.

“Tom Wilson told Gudbranson, ‘I’d be banned for life if I threw that hit,’” Shelley reported. “He was asserting that it was indeed a dirty play and deserved the major penalty. Gudbranson countered, saying, ‘He barely touched him, and now he’s back in the game.’”

After a timeout, Wilson continued the discussion with Olivier when he returned to the bench. Olivier maintained, “If you want me to stand up for that, I will. I’ll fight you, but I kept my elbow down; I didn’t mean to hit Chisholm high.” Wilson acknowledged this, saying, “I know you’re an honest player, but I would have faced a 20-game suspension for that.” Their conversation was respectful, showing a mutual understanding amid the heated game.

Wilson, known for his past suspensions—six times totaling 32 games—has faced Gudbranson before, even fighting him in the preseason. There was also a challenge from Olivier last season, which Wilson declined due to recovering from knee surgery.

As the match continued, the last 2:25 of regulation played out without any further incidents. The Capitals clinched a convincing 5-1 victory, marking their sixth win in the last seven games, improving their season record to 6-2.

This game highlights how quickly things can change in hockey, reminding fans of the intense emotions involved. As discussions about player safety grow in the NHL, incidents like this spark debates on what constitutes a penalty and the nuances of player intent. Understanding these dynamics adds color to the understanding of the game and its players.

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