EPISODE 19: Playoff “Bowness” Edition with Rick Bowness | Coaching Legacy, Culture Shift & the Evolution of Hockey

In Episode 19 of NHL Wraparound, hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren are joined by Rick Bowness, one of the NHL’s most respected coaches, who recently stepped away from the bench after a legendary career spanning nearly 40 years.

Bowness reflects on his journey—from his playing days to his coaching evolution—and opens up about his time with the Winnipeg Jets, how he approached culture-building, and what led him to retire. The conversation also explores the changing dynamics between coaches and players, the increasing impact of video replay, and how rule changes have reshaped the game.

The episode also touches on the Dallas Stars' postseason performance, the announcement of Don Waddell’s new role in Columbus, and the looming front-office decisions awaiting the next general manager in Carolina.

To wrap things up, the hosts share an emotional tribute to Rick Bowness and his connection to one of the most iconic Stanley Cup moments: Game 6 of the 1987 Flyers vs. Oilers series at the Spectrum—where the building, and the game, shook.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:41] Conference Final observations and key takeaways

[04:19] Dallas Stars breakdown and goaltending insights

[06:00] Rick Bowness joins the show

[06:26] On retirement, reflection, and future roles in hockey

[08:26] Assessing the future of the Winnipeg Jets

[23:31] The evolution of NHL coaching

[25:06] Communication, trust, and the modern coach-player relationship

[25:52] Video replay: impact and controversy

[28:33] How rule changes have shifted coaching philosophy

[30:25] Tribute to Rick Bowness and his lasting legacy

[34:53] Don Waddell’s fresh challenge with the Columbus Blue Jackets

[41:48] The Human Side of the Story: Rick Bowness & the 1987 Flyers-Oilers classic

[45:44] Favorite Stanley Cup memories and iconic moments

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Rick Bowness’s retirement came after careful consideration of his health, long-term goals, and passion to remain involved in hockey in new ways.
• He shares how changing the culture in Winnipeg required commitment, accountability, and buy-in from the players.
• The coach-player relationship has evolved into a more collaborative, communication-driven model—especially for younger generations.
• Bowness speaks candidly about the pros and cons of video replay, goaltender interference reviews, and how it affects a coach’s job.
• Emotional reflections bring context to Bowness’s career, especially the unforgettable energy of the 1987 Stanley Cup Final in Philadelphia.

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:

Catch this episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

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SPONSORS & OFFERS:

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ABOUT RICK BOWNESS:

Rick Bowness is a former NHL head coach and player with one of the longest coaching careers in league history. Drafted by the Atlanta Flames in 1975, Bowness later played for the Detroit Red Wings, St. Louis Blues, and the original Winnipeg Jets. As a coach, he led teams including the Ottawa Senators, Dallas Stars, and Winnipeg Jets, becoming known for his leadership, calm demeanor, and dedication to player development. His legacy spans decades of influence across the league.

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