Here’s the latest on Rick Bowness:
- Reports in mid-April 2026 indicated that Rick Bowness was expected to sign a new contract to continue as head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets, with announcements anticipated around that time. This suggested a continuity move after he had guided the team to a stronger midseason stretch.[1]
- In January 2026, there was coverage noting Bowness’ tendency for outspoken, high-energy leadership, which some outlets highlighted as a hallmark of his coaching style during his tenure in Columbus.[3]
- Earlier in 2024, Bowness had been away from duty for a medical procedure with Jets coverage noting his temporary absence and return plans; while not directly about Columbus, it provides context on his health-related absences in recent years.[2]
If you’d like, I can pull the most current headlines from a few reputable outlets and summarize any official statements from the Blue Jackets or Bowness’s representatives, and I can add direct links for further reading. I can also look for any recent video interviews or press conferences to capture his current stance and plans.
Sources
On Monday, the Columbus Blue Jackets fired head coach Dean Evason and assistant Steve McCarthy after a frustrating season that included blowing a three-goal lead against Pittsburgh in a 5-4 overtime loss on January 4 and a rough 1-3 road trip, leaving the team seventh in the Metropolitan Division.
www.yardbarker.comAssociate Arniel serving as coach for Winnipeg
www.nhl.comBowness had a record of 21-11-5 with Columbus in 25-26.
thehockeynews.comFirst Shift talk about the news of Rick Bowness to return as Blue Jackets Head Coach and more
www.nhl.comRead the latest UK headlines, on NewsNow. UK news, analysis and opinion from around the world.
www.newsnow.co.ukWatch ‘They don’t care, losing is not important’: Moncton-born Rick Bowness goes viral after tearing into own team Video Online, on GlobalNews.ca
globalnews.caAfter 40 years of coaching, former Islanders head coach Rick Bowness has called it a career.
thehockeynews.com