Blue Jackets Surge Into Playoff Race Under New Head Coach

Rick Bowness leads Columbus to 17-2-4 record since taking over in January

Mar. 21, 2026 at 11:09am

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Nine weeks ago, the Columbus Blue Jackets were in last place in the Eastern Conference with a 19-19-7 record. But after firing head coach Dean Evason and replacing him with veteran Rick Bowness, the team has gone on a tear, posting a 17-2-4 record under the new coach and surging into playoff position in the Metropolitan Division.

Why it matters

The Blue Jackets' dramatic turnaround under Bowness highlights the significant impact a coaching change can have, even in the middle of a season. Bowness' defensive-minded system has transformed the team, and players like Zach Werenski and Charlie Coyle have thrived under the new leadership.

The details

After Evason was fired on January 12, the Blue Jackets brought in 70-year-old Rick Bowness, who had recently retired as head coach of the Winnipeg Jets. Bowness implemented a structured defensive system that has reduced the team's shots allowed per game from 30.9 to 28.6. Goaltenders Elvis Merzlikins and Jet Greaves have both played well under the new system, with Merzlikins posting 5.37 goals saved above expected. The Blue Jackets have also seen strong production from Werenski, who is a Norris Trophy candidate, and Coyle, who has scored 9 goals since January 11, second-most in the NHL during that span.

  • On January 12, the Blue Jackets fired head coach Dean Evason.
  • Since Bowness took over, the Blue Jackets have posted a 17-2-4 record.

The players

Rick Bowness

The 70-year-old veteran head coach who came out of retirement to lead the Blue Jackets' playoff push.

Zach Werenski

The Blue Jackets defenseman who has emerged as a Norris Trophy candidate, leading all NHL defensemen with 60 points and 19 goals.

Charlie Coyle

The veteran forward who has scored 9 goals since January 11, ranking second in the NHL during that span.

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What they’re saying

“We must defend our way into the playoffs. It's all about sound positioning and limiting high-danger opportunities.”

— Rick Bowness, Head Coach

What’s next

The Blue Jackets will look to continue their strong play and secure a playoff spot in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Rick Bowness' coaching change has sparked a remarkable turnaround for the Blue Jackets, who have gone from last place to a playoff position in just two months. The team's defensive improvements and standout individual performances have been key to their surge up the standings.