Young Blue Jackets praise Rick Bowness' communication style.

Players said new coach Rick Bowness, hired this week to replace Dean Evason, has brought clear, frequent communication and moved pre-practice meetings to a video room; in Tuesday's 5-3 win over Calgary several young players logged more minutes and spoke positively about his approach.

Rick Bowness was hired this week as the Blue Jackets' new head coach, replacing Dean Evason. The team features several young players who have already worked under multiple NHL coaches. Bowness, who is 70, emphasized frequent conversations and video work with players and moved the pre-practice meeting to the video room. Young players such as Adam Fantilli and Kent Johnson said they noticed immediate differences in clarity and energy. Key facts: - Rick Bowness was hired to replace Dean Evason earlier this week. - Adam Fantilli (21) has had four NHL coaches; Kent Johnson (23) and Cole Sillinger (22) have had five. - Bowness moved the pre-practice meeting to the video room and said he plans frequent meetings and video work with players. - After Tuesday's 5-3 win over Calgary, the Blue Jackets climbed out of last place in the Eastern Conference for the first time since Dec. 22. - Kent Johnson played a season-high 20:55 and Adam Fantilli played 20:17 in that game, and both players spoke positively about Bowness' communication. Summary: Players reported clearer direction under Bowness and some received heavier minutes in Tuesday's win, which coincided with the coaching change. Bowness said he will spend time with younger players and use video sessions to get to know them. The Blue Jackets host the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday, and the team's adjustments under Bowness will continue to be observed.