Jim Hiller takes over as Maple Leafs head coach

Jim Hiller was introduced as the 41st head coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs during his media availability on Wednesday 17 June 2026.

From Kings assistant to Leafs bench boss

Hiller served as head coach of the Los Angeles Kings from 2024 to 2026 before the move. The Maple Leafs announced the hiring on the same day as his first media session. Hiller previously worked as an assistant in multiple organizations including the New York Islanders and Detroit Red Wings. His overall NHL coaching record stood at 92 wins through the 2025-26 season with the Kings.

The franchise had cycled through three head coaches in the prior five years before settling on Hiller. Leafs general manager Brad Treliving cited Hiller’s experience with structured systems as the deciding factor. Toronto finished 13th in goals against during 2025-26, prompting the emphasis on defense.

Hiller’s contract runs for three years with a club option for a fourth season. He replaces an interim coach who guided the team for the final 28 games of the prior season. The appointment occurred one week after the conclusion of the 2026 playoffs.

Defensive emphasis in Toronto system

Hiller’s Kings teams allowed 2.89 goals per game on average across two seasons. Toronto’s power-play unit ranked 18th league-wide in 2025-26 while the penalty kill sat 22nd. Early indications suggest Hiller will implement a 1-2-2 forecheck similar to his Los Angeles approach.

Maple Leafs players attended the June 17 media availability in limited numbers. Auston Matthews recorded 69 points in 82 games during the previous campaign. Hiller stated in indirect remarks that accountability would form the foundation of training camp preparations.

The hiring coincided with the Oilers releasing their four-game preseason schedule on the same date. Toronto opens its own exhibition slate on September 19 against a Western Conference opponent.

Path to October opener

Hiller will lead the team through a 6-day training camp beginning September 15 2026. The regular season expands to 84 games for 2026-27. Preseason ticket sales opened within 48 hours of the announcement.

Historical precedent shows new coaches improve defensive metrics by an average of 0.18 goals against per game in their first season. Hiller becomes the fourth coach hired league-wide during the June 2026 window. His arrival aligns with roster adjustments expected before the October 7 season start.

The 2026 PWHL Draft also took place on June 17, drawing parallel attention to league-wide personnel moves.