After the end of the episode that saw Noah rebel against his mom in a couple of gestures that quite clearly troubled her, Olivia may want to spend more time with him.
Olivia wouldn’t have to be any less important of a character even if she’s not physically tackling criminals on the streets of New York City.
It would potentially open up some new stories for Olivia (and Mariska Hargitay) as well.
She certainly seemed regretful that she missed one of his games earlier in the premiere, and her enthusiasm for Amanda’s unexpected pregnancy proves that her maternal instincts are going strong.