COLUMBUS, Ohio — Goaltender Elvis Merzlikins has experienced a remarkable turnaround since the Columbus Blue Jackets appointed Rick Bowness as their new head coach. The unpredictable netminder, who had been struggling with an .875 save percentage earlier in the season, has seen his performance soar to new heights, boasting an impressive .937 save percentage over the past week.
In a series of games that included victories over the Vancouver Canucks and the Pittsburgh Penguins, Merzlikins stepped up significantly, stopping 59 of 63 shots. His contribution has played a vital role in the Blue Jackets’ current four-game winning streak, leaving the team and fans buzzing with excitement.
Merzlikins’ newfound confidence has been evident both on and off the ice. He threw down the gauntlet by guaranteeing a win against the Penguins, showcasing his growing self-assurance and leadership. His interactions during games have also stood out—most notably during a pivotal moment in overtime against Pittsburgh, where he decided to take a quick sip of water while the puck was still in play. His rationale? “I was really thirsty,” he said, reflecting a relaxed attitude about the game situation that surprisingly emphasized trust in his teammates.
The moment sparked laughter from the coaching staff, with Bowness admitting he had never seen anything like it in his 50 years in the league. “That is trust,” he quipped, highlighting Merzlikins’ faith in his teammates to handle the puck as he took a break.
Compounding Merzlikins’ on-ice antics was a playful exchange with NHL superstar Sidney Crosby during a critical moment. After a spectacular save, Crosby jested with Merzlikins, pointing out that he nearly missed the shot altogether, to which Merzlikins humorously agreed.
As the Blue Jackets aim to keep their playoff hopes alive, Merzlikins’ performance is crucial. His earlier struggle to establish himself as the number one goalie behind Jet Greaves saw him settling into a backup role. However, since Bowness’s arrival, Merzlikins has proved he still possesses the skill and competitive spirit needed to guide his team to victories.
Bowness has praised Merzlikins’ performance, saying, “He just competes. He’s been outstanding… you do that, and you’re going to be okay.” As the season progresses, there is renewed hope for both the player and the team, underscoring the positive impact of coaching changes in professional sports. The Blue Jackets fans can now look forward to Merzlikins’ continued rise as a key player in their playoff aspirations.