Blue Jackets Ride Aggressive New Identity to 4-1 Win Over Canucks
There’s a new energy buzzing through the Columbus Blue Jackets locker room, and it’s not just about the wins-it’s about how they’re winning.
In just his second game behind the bench, new head coach Rick Bowness has already made his presence felt, guiding the Jackets to a convincing 4-1 win over the Vancouver Canucks. It’s the team’s second straight victory under Bowness, and more importantly, it’s another step forward in what’s quickly becoming a noticeable shift in style, structure, and swagger.
Bowness’s Blueprint: Poise, Chemistry, and Accountability
Let’s start with the coach himself. Bowness isn’t wasting any time putting his stamp on this team.
He praised Zach Werenski as an “elite player,” highlighting the defenseman’s calm under pressure and ability to make smart, composed plays-never forcing his partner into a bad spot with a panic pass. That kind of poise is exactly what Bowness wants as the foundation of his defensive structure.
He also gave a nod to goaltender Elvis Merzlikins, who came up with key saves early in the game after a few turnovers in the Jackets’ own zone. Bowness appreciated the calm presence Merzlikins brought to the crease, helping steady the ship when the game could’ve tilted the other way.
One of the more intriguing developments under Bowness has been the chemistry between Sean Monahan and Kent Johnson. The coach singled out Johnson’s hockey IQ and his ability to read the game at a high level, especially when going up against top lines. That pairing is starting to click, and Bowness clearly sees something worth building on.
On the blue line, Damon Severson drew praise for his reliable play. Bowness also emphasized the balance of having three right-handed and three left-handed defensemen in the lineup, which helps with smoother puck movement and better vision across the ice.
As for the rotation on defense, Bowness addressed the decision to alternate Erik Gudbranson and Dante Fabbro. Gudbranson, who’s had limited ice time recently, is still working to find his rhythm, and Bowness is managing that process with an eye on long-term consistency.
Kent Johnson: Reinvigorated and Ready
No player may benefit more from the coaching change than Kent Johnson. The young forward was honest about his early-season struggles, taking full accountability and saying he had “a lot more to offer.” He’s starting to show it.
Under Bowness, Johnson has already seen a significant jump in ice time, setting a new season-high in minutes played. He didn’t register a point in Bowness’s debut, but he looked far more involved-three shots on goal, second-line minutes, and a spot on the top power-play unit all speak to a player being given a real opportunity to contribute.
Johnson said Bowness "really grabbed the room" and described playing for him as something that’s going to be “fun.” But it’s not just about fun-there’s a clear message of accountability.
Johnson acknowledged the team’s renewed focus on defense and the importance of tightening up in high-danger areas. He knows that if he wants to keep earning those minutes, he’ll need to keep winning battles and producing offensively.
Marchenko: “Hunting the Puck” and Loving It
Kirill Marchenko is thriving in the Jackets’ new high-tempo system. He described the team’s approach as far more aggressive, saying they’re now focused on “hunting the puck” rather than sitting back and waiting for plays to develop. That shift in mentality is already paying dividends.
One of the biggest changes Marchenko noted is how the team is now sustaining pressure throughout the full 60 minutes. In the past, the Jackets had a tendency to ease off when holding a lead.
Not anymore. The new system demands intensity from puck drop to final horn, and it’s helping the team force more turnovers and generate more scoring chances.
Marchenko also emphasized the importance of “reloading” in the defensive zone-working together to support one another and close down space. That buy-in from the group is what’s allowing the system to take hold so quickly.
And in a lighter moment, Marchenko joked that he felt “a little bit like a coach” after discussing a specific move with Charlie Coyle during practice-one that later led to a goal. That kind of player-to-player communication is a great sign of a locker room that’s engaged and clicking.
Merzlikins Finding His Flow
In net, Elvis Merzlikins is starting to look like his old self again. He pointed out that shots are now coming from more manageable areas-out wide and from the corners-rather than the dangerous slot. That’s a direct result of better defensive positioning and an emphasis on boxing out opponents, giving Merzlikins clearer sightlines and more control in the crease.
He credited his teammates for their commitment to blocking shots and staying disciplined late in games. That’s been a noticeable change-rather than sitting back and hoping to hold a lead, the Jackets are staying on the attack, even in the third period.
For Merzlikins personally, this win meant a lot. After a stretch of limited playing time, getting that first victory under Bowness helped him regain some confidence. He admitted he’s focusing more on his own preparation now, rather than overthinking the systemic changes.
Despite not having a full practice under the new coach yet, Merzlikins is impressed with how quickly the team is adapting. He praised the high energy and competitiveness the group has brought to the ice and said the expectations from the coaching staff are already crystal clear.
A Team Buying In
There’s still a long way to go, but the early signs under Rick Bowness are promising. The Jackets are playing faster, harder, and smarter. Players are being held accountable, and they’re responding with energy and execution.
Most importantly, the team looks like it’s enjoying the process. That matters. When a group plays with purpose and passion, it usually leads to good things.
And right now, the Columbus Blue Jackets are starting to look like a team with both.