The Columbus Blue Jackets became this season’s first team to make a massive move behind the bench. Firing Dean Evason was the result of a combination of factors. But the bottom line was that the club just wasn’t putting up enough Ws on the board.
With the Blue Jackets sitting in last place in the Metro Division, something had to give. That something was Evanson getting the heave-ho. But instead of naming an interim coach for the rest of the season, GM Don Waddell turned to a veteran figure.
Rick Bowness, one of the most seasoned coaches in the NHL, became the answer to the Blue Jackets’ most immediate concerns. However, Bowness doesn’t seem to be more than a stopgap at this point.
As insider Pierre LeBrun noted in The Athletic, Bowness only signed on to coach the team until the end of this season. After that, it’s anyone’s guess what will happen. In this scenario, Occam’s razor would suggest that signing Bowness for just this season hinges on practicality.
There was a fire that needed putting out. That’s what Bowness signed on to do. Once the fire is under control, the sides will get together to discuss what the future may hold. That future may include an engagement beyond this season or a one-and-done deal.
That’s why the Blue Jackets will face uncertainty behind the bench once this season is over. Unless Bowness signs on soon enough, the club could be dealing with a vacancy during the summer.
Bowness Bought Time for Blue Jackets to Figure Things Out
Bowness left his previous post with the Winnipeg Jets due to health concerns of his own and his wife’s. But now it seems that part of his life is behind him. So, the veteran coach got back in the game in Columbus.
That said, Bowness did something crucial for the Blue Jackets: He bought them time. That time allows Don Waddell to figure out what other options may be out there, should Bowness forego another season in Columbus.
If the plan is for Bowness to stay one, well, the Blue Jackets won’t need to search for a new coach.
But if Bowness does not return, the Jackets will have the time to find a suitable replacement. Plus, Columbus wouldn’t be staring at the prospect of a lost season under an interim coach. The club will have the luxury of rediscovering its groove with one of the most respected coaches in the league.
Columbus Looking to Salvage its Season
This season has been highly unusual in the Eastern Conference. Just about every team, from top to bottom, is within a reasonable distance. In particular, the last-place clubs in the East still have a decent chance to nab a playoff spot.
For instance, the Buffalo Sabres and Toronto Maple Leafs have resurrected their seasons after spending some time in the cellar. Both clubs are clinging to playoff spots now after a solid run.
That’s what Waddell envisions for the Blue Jackets. A good run can parlay into a resurgence in the standings. All told, hiring Bowness was a vote of confidence for his team rather than raising the white flag on the season.
Blue Jackets Will Face Coaching Uncertainty in Offseason