Blue Jackets Sunday Gathering: Two coaching candidates will visit Columbus this week

A collection of notes on the Columbus Blue Jackets’ coaching search reveals that two candidates will have in-person interviews this week. General manager Don Waddell confirms that Dean Evason, former coach of the Minnesota Wild, and Jay Woodcroft, former coach of the Edmonton Oilers, are the top contenders. Waddell initially considered 12 candidates and conducted multiple video or phone interviews with one of the three finalists. The negotiations with the primary choice fell through, prompting the team to move forward with Evason and Woodcroft. Waddell aims to hire the right coach, even if the process takes longer. Additionally, Rick Nash, the Blue Jackets’ director of player development, is growing more involved in the organization without a formal change in title. Goaltender Jet Greaves signed a two-year contract with the Blue Jackets after an impressive performance during the 2021-22 season.