Dean Evason shares lofty ambition after taking on Columbus Blue Jackets HC role

By Evan Bell

Modified Jul 23, 2024 16:14 GMT

Dean Evason was named as the head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets, replacing Pascal Vincent after just one year with the team, on Monday. Evason, who had a lengthy playing career in the NHL (1983–96), spent several years coaching in Minnesota before being fired last season.

As he prepares to take over as coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets this season, Evason has made it clear that he has one goal for the team: to win the Stanley Cup, something that the Blue Jackets haven't done before.

On Tuesday, he spoke with media members during his introductory press conference while seated alongside Columbus GM Don Waddell.

"I had a passion to lift the Stanley Cup with my skates on. That’s not gonna happen. But I have the opportunity to hoist the Stanley Cup with a suit on. That's my desire, that's my drive. That's why I'm sitting here," Evason said.

The Blue Jackets have missed the playoffs in four straight seasons. During that time, they also posted losing records. Dean Evason aims to change that while coaching his group to success.

Dean Evason believes in Blue Jackets' core and young talent

With young players developing and the team sitting on a slew of young talent acquired in this summer's NHL draft, Dean Evason is optimistic as he takes the reins in Columbus.

“There is a great core and a lot of young talent on this team. I am really looking forward to working with this group and helping us become a team that plays extremely hard and competes at the highest level," he said.

Heading into this season, it's no secret that Columbus has struggled to find their rhythm. After the shortened 2021 NHL season, the team appeared to be heading in the right direction, posting a 37-38-7 record the following year.

While they missed the playoffs after a promising start to the season with a strong core of skaters who showed their durability, there was optimism surrounding the franchise. The following season, however, their record plummeted to 25-48-9, with a 27-43-12 record this past season.

While Pascal Vincent was only behind the bench for one year, given the team's inability to turn things around, the two sides parted ways this offseason.

With playing experience and coaching experience, it will be interesting to see whether Dean Evason is able to help the Blue Jackets return to playoff contention. Their 2024–25 season will begin on Oct. 10, when Evason's Blue Jackets face off with his former team, the Minnesota Wild.