Rick Bowness signed a one-year extension Thursday, keeping him behind the bench of the Columbus Blue Jackets for next season. The 71‑year‑old coach steered the club from last place to a 21‑11‑5 finish after replacing Dean Evason on Jan. 12, sparking a 12‑game point streak that lifted Columbus into the playoffs before a late collapse. The extension makes him the league’s oldest coach heading into 2026‑27.

After a 2‑1 defeat to Washington that ended the campaign, Bowness unleashed a three‑minute tirade, accusing his squad of tolerating loss and vowing to overhaul the “freaking culture.” General manager Don Waddell said the outburst matched previous messages and praised Bowness’ passion. The coach acknowledged the rant was “a little over the top” but stood by his standards.

Columbus finished 40‑30‑12, posting 92 points—the fifth‑highest total in franchise history yet missing the postseason for the sixth straight year. Defenseman Zach Werenski led with 81 points and remains a Norris Trophy candidate, while free‑agent decisions loom for Charlie Coyle, Mason Marchment and captain Boone Jenner. Bowness returns with a proven résumé, having guided Dallas to the 2020 Cup Final.