Will Rick Bowness return to coach the Columbus Blue Jackets next season?
The future of head coach Rick Bowness with the Columbus Blue Jackets was a key topic recently on Sirius XM NHL Network Morning Skate. Hockey insider Elliotte Friedman addressed questions from Scott Laughlin and Gord Stellick regarding a potential contract extension for Bowness, especially given the team’s improved performance.
Scott Laughlin highlighted the “Rick Bowness bump,” noting the Blue Jackets’ recent success, which has propelled them to second place in the Metropolitan Division. He questioned why Bowness had not yet received an extension, suggesting that his impact, solidifying a playoff spot, should be more than enough to warrant one. Laughlin also raised concerns about upcoming unrestricted free agents, such as Charlie Coyle, Mason Marchment, and captain Boone Jenner, who might be influenced by the coaching situation.
Elliotte Friedman shared insights from a conversation with Blue Jackets General Manager Don Waddell at the end of the GM meetings. Waddell indicated that discussions about Bowness’s extension would take place at the end of the season, adding lightheartedly, “The only two people who aren’t worried about this is us.” Friedman affirmed he took Waddell at his word regarding the delayed talks.
However, Friedman concurred with Laughlin that some of the impending unrestricted free agents might indeed be keen to know if Bowness will remain with the team next season. He speculated that if Bowness was willing to come out of what could be called semi-retirement to take on this role, and is now enjoying significant success, an extension shouldn’t be difficult to achieve, provided all parties maintain realistic expectations. Friedman emphasized Bowness’s profound love for coaching, a trait he observed while working with him.
Friedman also pointed out Waddell’s history of patience in negotiations, citing the example of the Ivan Provorov deal, which was finalized just before free agency last year.
The Blue Jackets have shown a remarkable turnaround under Bowness’s leadership. Since his hiring, the team boasts an impressive record of 19-3-4, a stark contrast to their 19-19-7 performance before his arrival. GM Don Waddell always believed the team was better than their initial record suggested and has made strategic moves, trading for players like Marchment, Conor Garland, Coyle, and Miles Wood, to strengthen the roster and make them a tougher opponent, aiming for a playoff berth.
With Bowness currently on a one-year deal, the decisions regarding his future and that of several key unrestricted free agents loom large. As the Jackets continue their march toward the playoffs, how these situations play out remains a key storyline.
