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3d ago

Maple Leafs Name Jim Hiller New Head Coach

The hire gives John Chayka a familiar, player‑centric leader to run the team immediately and shape the No. 1 pick and short‑term roster plans.

Mar 27, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Los Angeles Kings head coach Jim Hiller in the first period against the Los Angeles Kings at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • The Toronto Maple Leafs announced on June 17, 2026 that Jim Hiller is the franchise’s 41st head coach and will take over immediately.
  • General manager John Chayka said the club met with more than 25 candidates and chose Hiller for his experience, player relationships and clear approach behind the bench.
  • Hiller returns to Toronto after serving as a Leafs assistant from 2015–19 and most recently as Los Angeles Kings head coach, where he posted a 93-58-24 regular-season record and was fired on March 1, 2026.
  • Hiller’s immediate tasks include preparing the team for the June 26, 2026 NHL Draft with Toronto holding the No. 1 overall pick and integrating recent roster moves made by Chayka.
  • The hire surprised many fans and reporters because Hiller’s name was not widely discussed during the long search and observers note questions about his playoff record and whether he can restore Toronto’s offense after a 32-36-14 season.