Rick Bowness emerged from retirement to become the new head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets, accepting the offer while aboard his Florida boat. The 70-year-old replaces Dean Evason, who was fired after the team’s poor start to the season.

Bowness brings decades of NHL experience, including a Stanley Cup Final appearance with the Dallas Stars. His return marks a significant shift for Columbus, which sits last in the Eastern Conference with a 19-19-7 record and is in danger of missing the playoffs again.

Team president Don Waddell cited recent losses and player frustration as key factors. Bowness plans to tighten defensive play and reduce costly third-period collapses. Veteran players like Sean Monahan praised his structure and leadership.

With the Blue Jackets hosting Calgary tonight, Bowness has little time to implement changes. He becomes the franchise’s 14th coach since 2000, aiming to end a playoff drought that dates back to 2020.