Blue Jackets Coach's Challenge Saves Win vs Panthers

Veteran coach Rick Bowness had no doubt in overturning a late game-tying goal to preserve Columbus' victory.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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In a close game against the Florida Panthers, the Columbus Blue Jackets were leading 3-2 late in the third period when the Panthers scored what appeared to be a game-tying goal. However, Blue Jackets coach Rick Bowness immediately challenged the goal, and after video review, the officials determined that Panthers forward Jesper Boqvist had interfered with the Blue Jackets' goaltender, disallowing the goal. The Blue Jackets then scored an empty-net goal to seal the 4-2 victory.

Why it matters

Coach's challenges are a critical part of modern hockey, allowing teams to contest close calls that can swing the outcome of a game. Bowness' decisive action and the video coaching staff's quick response highlight the importance of strong communication and collaboration within an NHL organization, especially in high-pressure situations.

The details

With 2:55 left in the third period and the Blue Jackets leading 3-2, the Panthers scored what would have been the game-tying goal. However, Bowness immediately challenged the play, and after video review, the officials determined that Panthers forward Jesper Boqvist had interfered with Blue Jackets goaltender Jet Greaves, disallowing the goal. The Blue Jackets then scored an empty-net goal to seal the 4-2 victory.

  • The game-tying goal was scored with 2:55 left in the third period.
  • Bowness challenged the goal immediately after it was scored.
  • The officials reviewed the play and disallowed the goal.
  • The Blue Jackets scored an empty-net goal with 1:42 left to seal the 4-2 victory.

The players

Rick Bowness

The head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets, a veteran NHL coach with decades of experience behind the bench.

Jet Greaves

The goaltender for the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Jesper Boqvist

A forward for the Florida Panthers who was involved in the disallowed goal.

Ivan Provorov

A defenseman for the Columbus Blue Jackets who was involved in the disallowed goal.

Mathieu Olivier

A forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets who scored the empty-net goal to seal the victory.

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What they’re saying

“No. Once he goes in between the defenseman and the goalie, he's initiating that contact. If our guy was there first and pushing him in, that's a different contact. But when he goes, when he tries to get between the D and the goalie, he's going to do that.”

— Rick Bowness, Head Coach, Columbus Blue Jackets (cleveland.com)

“So again, the video coaches, Aron (Augustitus) and Cam (Briere) have done a great job on that, and they didn't hesitate to call up, say, 'Challenge it.' So I'll go with whatever they tell me to do, we're gonna do.”

— Rick Bowness, Head Coach, Columbus Blue Jackets (cleveland.com)

What’s next

The Blue Jackets will look to build on this hard-fought victory as they continue their push for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

The takeaway

Bowness' decisive challenge and the collaborative decision-making between the coaching staff and video team highlight the importance of strong organizational culture and trust in high-pressure situations. This win showcases the Blue Jackets' resilience and ability to overcome adversity late in games.