The Toronto Maple Leafs have named Jim Hiller their 41st head coach, a move that comes as the club looks to rebound from a disappointing 2024‑25 campaign that left them at the bottom of the Atlantic Division.
Hiller returns to the organization where he first made his mark as an assistant from 2015 through 2019, a period that helped shape his understanding of the team's culture and the expectations of its fan base.
Before his stint in Toronto, he guided the Los Angeles Kings to a 93‑58‑24 record as head coach, demonstrating his ability to translate junior‑level success into NHL results.
A Front Office Overhaul
The hiring is part of a broader restructuring initiated by new general manager John Chayka, who replaced Craig Berube after two seasons and set out to realign the roster and coaching staff.
Chayka's vision includes a blockbuster trade that sent goaltender Joseph Woll and defenseman Simon Benoit to the Philadelphia Flyers, a transaction that clears cap space and adds depth to the Flyers' blue line.
In addition to the trade, the Maple Leafs hold the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NHL Draft, a valuable asset that could accelerate the rebuild by adding a top prospect.
Hiller's background in junior hockey, where he built a reputation for developing young talent, positions him well to integrate the draft pick into the lineup and nurture the team's emerging stars.
The front office believes that Hiller's familiarity with the organization, combined with his proven track record, will provide the stability and direction needed to restore competitiveness in a market that demands results.