Blue Jackets' Bowness Turnaround: 16-2-4

For the NHL, it's March 18th, and here's what's going on.

Columbus Blue Jackets General Manager Don Waddell knew he needed a coaching change by January

12th.

He made a short list overnight and woke up focused on one name, Rick Bownes, the 70-year-old

veteran coach.

After meeting with team ownership that day, Waddell made the call.

He reached Bownes on his boat near their floor to home.

They chatted briefly, and when Waddell asked if he missed coaching, Bownes said yes, and

quickly got back after talking with his wife.

The higher paid off fast.

Since Bownes started on January 13th, the Blue Jackets are 16 wins, two losses, and four

overtime losses in 22 games.

That includes a solid 5-to-1 win over Carolina on Tuesday.

Their play has been the best in the league during that stretch, with an 8-18 points percentage.

They're averaging 3.64 goals per game, while allowing just 2.55.

The power play clicks at 25%, and the penalty kill sits at 80.7%.

Now one point from a wall card spot, and two back for third in the Metropolitan Division,

the team is climbing.

Waddell prays Bownes' player communication, and work with young talent, saying it's

delivering results so far.

We'd like to thank our sponsor for making this episode possible.

When you need a moment alone, just lay back and listen, S-O-L-I-M-R-A-S-U-R-L-I,

S-O-L-I-P-L-O-L-I-I.