Mon Jan 12 21:40:00 UTC 2026: # Blue Jackets Relieve Coaching Staff, Name Rick Bowness Head Coach
The Story:
The Columbus Blue Jackets have announced the dismissal of head coach Dean Evason and assistant coach Steve McCarthy. Veteran NHL coach Rick Bowness has been appointed as the new head coach, with President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Don Waddell making the announcement on January 12, 2026. Waddell cited the team’s underperformance as the primary reason for the coaching change, despite acknowledging Evason’s efforts the previous year.
Bowness, who previously coached the Winnipeg Jets from 2022-2024, brings significant experience to Columbus, including leading the Dallas Stars to the 2020 Stanley Cup Final. The Blue Jackets hope Bowness’s structured approach and communication skills will help the team improve its performance and achieve its goals.
Key Points:
- Dean Evason and Steve McCarthy have been relieved of their coaching duties by the Columbus Blue Jackets on January 12, 2026.
- Rick Bowness has been named the new head coach of the Blue Jackets.
- Bowness previously coached the Winnipeg Jets (2022-2024) and the Dallas Stars, leading the latter to the 2020 Stanley Cup Final.
- Don Waddell, President of Hockey Operations and General Manager, cited the team’s underperformance as the reason for the coaching change.
- Evason had a 59-52-16 record in 127 games with the Blue Jackets.
Key Takeaways:
- The Columbus Blue Jackets are actively seeking to improve their on-ice performance by making a significant coaching change.
- Rick Bowness’s extensive experience and track record of success make him a high-profile hire for the organization.
- The dismissal of Evason highlights the pressure on NHL coaches to deliver immediate results.
- The Blue Jackets organization clearly feels that a change in leadership is necessary to meet their expectations.
- The hiring of Bowness signals a strategic shift towards a more structured and defensively sound team.
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