A Season of Struggles
Vincent's tenure as head coach of the Blue Jackets saw the team floundering, culminating in a season plagued with defeat and disappointment. The Blue Jackets finished with a 27-43-12 record, securing the fewest points in the Eastern Conference. With a total of 66 points, they held the fourth-fewest points in the entire NHL, missing the playoffs for the fourth consecutive season.
The team endured a particularly tough stretch in November, suffering nine straight losses and managing to win only three out of their 15 games that month. Over the course of the season, the Blue Jackets experienced eight separate three-game losing streaks, with the final stretch being a four-game spiral from April 7 through April 13.
Defensive struggles were at the forefront, as the team allowed the second-most goals per game in the league. Offensively, they had the second-worst power play and their penalty kill ranked in the bottom 10. The Blue Jackets also struggled to score, ranking 24th in goals per game.
Leadership Changes
In February, the organization sought to alter the trajectory by firing General Manager Jarmo Kekalainen, who had been with the team since the 2012-13 season. This marked a significant change for the franchise as they looked to reshape the leadership at the top.
By May, the Blue Jackets brought in Don Waddell, the former General Manager of the Carolina Hurricanes, to fill the roles of GM and President of Hockey Operations. Tasked with steering the ship in a new direction, Waddell faced the immediate challenge of addressing the head coaching position.
Vincent's Short Tenure
Pascal Vincent's journey with the Blue Jackets began in the 2021-22 season when he was hired as an assistant coach. His promotion to head coach occurred under unusual circumstances. Less than a month before the regular season, head coach Mike Babcock resigned amid allegations of violating players’ privacy, thrusting Vincent into the helm.
Despite the challenging situation, Vincent was commended for his dedication and work ethic. He worked tirelessly under trying circumstances, but it became apparent that a change was necessary for the team’s best interest. "On behalf of our organization, I want to thank Pascal for his work ethic, professionalism, and contributions during his three seasons with the Blue Jackets," stated Waddell, recognizing Vincent's efforts and commitment.
Looking Forward
As of now, the Blue Jackets are the only NHL team with a head coaching vacancy. Since the end of the season, eight teams have either hired a new coach or promoted an interim coach to a permanent role. The most recent addition to the coaching carousel was Ryan Warsofsky with the San Jose Sharks.
The incoming coach for the Blue Jackets will face the daunting task of revamping a squad that needs significant improvement across the board. Defensive strategies need bolstering, the power play and penalty kill require revamping, and offensive production must increase if the team is to compete at a higher level.
The loyal fans of the Blue Jackets are yearning for a turnaround. They hope that new leadership can breathe new life into the franchise, restore past glories, and bring renewed success. The franchise appears poised to embark on a new chapter, moving forward with cautious optimism.
Waddell summed up the sentiment best when he mentioned, "As I spent time with Pascal over the past few weeks, I found him to be an outstanding person and smart hockey coach who worked very hard under trying circumstances. But I believe a change behind the bench is in our team's best interest." Those words reflect the hope that with new direction, better days lie ahead for the Blue Jackets and their fans.