Rick Bowness, a revered figure in the NHL, has retired after over 40 years of coaching. Known affectionately as 'Bones', Bowness is celebrated for his personable approach and significant contributions to the sport. Throughout his career, he has been praised for his authenticity and the positive impact he has had on the league. Colleagues and players alike commend his ability to keep spirits high during challenging times, including his tenure with the Vancouver Canucks as an assistant coach and navigating the Dallas Stars through the aftermath of a firing and the COVID-19 pandemic. His legacy extends beyond his coaching achievements, with many considering him a strong candidate for the Hall of Fame due to his record number of games coached and the indelible mark he has left on the NHL. Adam Lowry highlighted Bowness's Hall of Fame worthiness, stating he 'left the game better than when he came in.' Speculation about his successor points towards Scott Arniel.
There were lots of feelings from Stars fans about Rick Bowness’ coaching but: way the Montgomery firing happened and then COVID right after, there was no better coach to lead the Stars through that time. Respected throughout. Wish him, and his wife, Judy, the best in retirement.
Bowness built NHL success, longevity on being 'authentic' https://t.co/W4RkOVGNDX
This is what coaching is all about at any level. Congrats in retirement to one of the NHL's great people https://t.co/Hq1xNhB0ho
Adam Lowry says Rick Bowness deserves to be in the Hall of Fame: "Most games coached, ever. You talk about someone who left (the game) better than when he came in, I think Rick really embodies that."
A good man and great hockey man retired today. Congratulations Coach . https://t.co/FYOdmDVtqy
Class - Rick is the definition of class. What a mark this man has left on the game. I hope he and Judy make the most of the next chapter. Congratulations on an incredible career. https://t.co/Cce1tQa72T
My lasting Rick Bowness memory (memories) is walking into road arenas with him He was greeted like a long lost friend by so many people. Security guards, locker room attendants, coaches and players. He is truly beloved That’s a fantastic legacy. Thanks, Rick
Rick Bowness was behind the #Canucks bench for seven years as an assistant coach. Read more on @TheHockeyNews.⤵️ https://t.co/j5VPiQJJu9
My hunch on Rick Bowness' successor as the head coach of #GoJetsGo: Scott Arniel @sickpodnhl
Rick Bowness, last week: "Every day in this league is a blessing. It is. We're treated so well. We're in the best league in the world. Never ever, every take a day for granted in this league. And I never have and I never will. I just love this game. It's been my life." https://t.co/bnXPBRsy86
Congrats Rick. A great coach and an even better person. An amazing career. https://t.co/2oyYWK8LPW
I had the chance to work with "Bones" when I was #Isles PxP announcer --- just a really, really awesome dude, funny, down to earth &, oh yeah, a helluva #NHL coach over 4 decades. Wishing him good health and much happiness in retirement. #GoJetsGo https://t.co/L7EGS2sZSX
One of the best people you’ll ever come across in the game. Hats off Bones to a wonderful 40+ year career coaching in the NHL!! https://t.co/hluriuccA0
Hockey won't be the same without you, Bones 💙 https://t.co/7evocydmqK
Congrats on a great career to Rick Bowness. Great human. Kept it light, made covering one of the weirdest stretches of my career more entertaining. https://t.co/fLt6dSM5Fv