Blue Jackets Riding High Under Rick Bowness, But Trade Deadline Looms Large
The Columbus Blue Jackets were supposed to be in a holding pattern this season-treading water in the standings, still figuring out their identity. But since Rick Bowness stepped behind the bench earlier this month, this team has found its edge.
Winners of six of their last seven, the Jackets are skating with purpose, playing with a kind of swagger that’s been missing for much of the year. And while they’re still on the outside of the playoff picture looking in, there’s a growing belief around the locker room-and the league-that they’re not done yet.
The “Rick Bowness Bump” Is Real
Since taking over for Dean Evason on January 12, Bowness has brought exactly what you’d expect from a coach with over 2,600 games of NHL experience: structure, clarity, and accountability. The Jackets aren’t just winning-they’re doing it with confidence.
Puck movement is crisper, defensive assignments are tighter, and the team is playing with a noticeable uptick in energy. That’s the kind of shift that can change a season’s trajectory.
They’re still chasing in the Metropolitan Division, but the way they’ve responded to the coaching change has injected some real optimism into the fanbase. And with a favorable stretch of games on the horizon, there’s an opportunity to make up some ground-if they can keep this momentum going.
Mason Marchment: A Midseason Steal
One of the biggest catalysts for Columbus’ recent surge? Mason Marchment.
Acquired in December from the Seattle Kraken, Marchment has been nothing short of electric. He’s riding a heater right now, with eight goals in his last nine games-including a hat trick against the Tampa Bay Lightning that turned heads across the league.
Marchment brings a unique blend of size, grit, and scoring touch. He’s not just finishing plays-he’s creating them. His physical play along the boards and willingness to go to the dirty areas have opened up space for his linemates, and his confidence is clearly rubbing off on the rest of the roster.
For a team that’s struggled to find consistent offensive production this season, Marchment has been a game-changer.
Trade Deadline Reality Check
As much as the recent win streak has reignited hope, the front office is still expected to approach the March 6 trade deadline as sellers. The long-term plan hasn’t changed: build a sustainable contender through youth and smart asset management. That means some familiar faces could be on the move.
Boone Jenner continues to be a name floated in trade chatter. The captain’s leadership, two-way play, and manageable contract make him an attractive rental for contenders like the Oilers or Rangers. Moving him would be a tough pill to swallow emotionally, but it could bring back a meaningful return.
Then there’s the goaltending situation. Elvis Merzlikins has seen his role challenged by the emergence of Jet Greaves, who’s been quietly outplaying the veteran in recent weeks. While Merzlikins has looked sharper under Bowness, his contract and the team’s future outlook in net make him a logical trade candidate if the right offer comes along.
Blue Line Bright Spots-and Bumps
On the back end, Zach Werenski is playing some of the best hockey of his career. He’s not just logging big minutes-he’s driving offense from the blue line at a level that warrants Norris Trophy consideration. His ability to control the pace of play and jumpstart the transition game has been a massive asset during this recent run.
Injury-wise, Dante Fabbro is currently sidelined with a lower-body issue, while Erik Gudbranson has finally returned after a lengthy absence. Getting Gudbranson back in the lineup adds a layer of physicality and veteran presence to a group that’s leaned heavily on Werenski’s all-around game.
Week Ahead: Key Stretch for Momentum
Here’s how the schedule shakes out for the Blue Jackets this week:
- Mon, Jan 26 - vs. Los Angeles Kings (Nationwide Arena, 7:00 PM) *This one’s been postponed due to severe winter weather in Columbus. It’s been rescheduled for March 9.
- Wed, Jan 28 - vs. Philadelphia Flyers (Nationwide Arena, 7:30 PM) *A divisional clash that could have real implications if the Jackets stay hot. *
- Fri, Jan 30 - at Chicago Blackhawks (United Center, 8:30 PM) Start of a road trip against a rebuilding Hawks squad.
- Sat, Jan 31 - at St. Louis Blues (Enterprise Center, 7:00 PM) *Back-to-back test against a team that’s been tough at home. *
This stretch could be pivotal. Keep winning, and the playoff conversation gets a little more serious. Slip up, and the trade deadline calculus starts to shift.
The Blue Jackets are at a crossroads-playing their best hockey of the season, but still facing some tough decisions. Whether they push for a playoff spot or pivot toward the future, the next few weeks will define where this team is headed. And under Rick Bowness, they’ve at least given themselves a fighting chance.