The Columbus Blue Jackets have become another surprising team this season. Like the Buffalo Sabres, they were practically dead at one point. But a change behind the bench spurred a major turnaround. But that situation hasn’t calmed NHL rumors surrounding the club.
While the focus is justifiably on getting back to the postseason, the chatter surrounding the Blue Jackets has honed in on their potential UFAs. In particular, captain Boone Jenner, center Charlie Coyle, Mason Marchment, and blueliner Erik Gudbranson could all hit the market this summer.
The situation for now seems that all of these players want to stay in Columbus. But their permanence with the Blue Jackets depends on a key issue. That is the return of head coach Rick Bowness.
NHL rumors suggested that Bowness had only committed to this season in Columbus. A return by the veteran coach would be something evaluated after the year. But from what one notable insider has posited, impending UFAs want clarity on Bowness’ future before committing to re-signing in Columbus.
“They have some big free agents, including…Charlie Coyle… some of them have asked to be part of the negotiation process, do you think Rick Bowness is going to be back next year… there’s a lot on the line here.”
It seems that the players would like Bowness to return. But that decision isn’t entirely up to the organization. According to NHL rumors, that decision mostly lies with Bowness himself.
NHL Rumors Lean Towards Bowness Returning
Bowness last coached the Winnipeg Jets during the 2023-24 season. However, he stepped down from his role due to health reasons. He returned to coaching this season following a full recovery.
That situation, plus the seemingly good hit in Columbus, has tilted NHL rumors towards Bowness wanting to return next season. But as the prevailing chatter suggests, that’s a bit premature.
That said, it seems that the organization also wants Bowness to return. If that’s also the case, it might just be a matter of the two sides coming up with a plan moving forward.
The timeline, however, may not be so cut and dry.
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Blue Jackets, Bowness Likely to Decide in Offseason
The timeline for a decision regarding Bowness would likely happen once the season is over. That could mean after the Blue Jackets end their playoff run or fail to make the postseason.
Either way, the onus will be on a decision at that point. It will be crucial to get clarity, as the opening of free agency on July 1 will determine if the organization can re-sign its impending UFAs or lose them to the market.
NHL rumors are buzzing about the lack of quality UFAs this summer. So, players like Marchment, Coyle, and Gudbrandson could be among the most coveted pieces this offseason.
Again, the likelihood of the Blue Jackets re-signing their players will likely come down to Bowness’ decision. While there is no pressure, there’s no question that Bowness’ departure could mean a significant drain on the Blue Jackets’ current roster.
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