Why did the Columbus Blue Jackets fire Dean Evason?

The Blue Jackets fired Dean Evason due to a frustrating season and performance not meeting expectations.

Who is the new head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets?

Rick Bowness, a veteran NHL coach with extensive experience, is the new head coach.

What is Rick Bowness's coaching history?

Rick Bowness has coached multiple NHL teams, including reaching the Stanley Cup Final with Dallas and leading the Winnipeg Jets.

Home / Sports / Columbus Blue Jackets Fire Evason, Hire Bowness Amid Frustrating Season

Columbus Blue Jackets Fire Evason, Hire Bowness Amid Frustrating Season

13 Jan

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Summary

Columbus Blue Jackets replaced Dean Evason with Rick Bowness as head coach.
The team cited a frustrating season and unmet performance expectations.
Bowness brings extensive NHL coaching experience, including a Stanley Cup Final appearance.

Columbus Blue Jackets Fire Evason, Hire Bowness Amid Frustrating Season

The Columbus Blue Jackets announced a significant change in their coaching staff on January 13, 2026, relieving Dean Evason of his head coaching duties and dismissing assistant coach Steve McCarthy. The organization cited a "frustrating season" and performance levels that did not meet expectations as the primary reasons for the decision. President of Hockey Operations Don Waddell expressed gratitude for Evason's work under difficult circumstances.

Veteran NHL coach Rick Bowness has been appointed as the new head coach. Bowness, who recently retired from coaching the Winnipeg Jets in May 2024, brings a wealth of experience spanning nearly five decades. He led the Dallas Stars to the Stanley Cup Final in 2020 and was a Jack Adams Award finalist for his tenure with the Jets. His career includes coaching seven different NHL teams.