Los Angeles Kings fire Jim Hiller and promote D.J. Smith to interim head coach

The Los Angeles Kings have made a significant midseason coaching change, firing head coach Jim Hiller after two seasons behind the bench. The announcement came on Sunday following a dismal February that saw the team endure a five-game losing streak, snapped only by a 2-0 shutout victory over the Calgary Flames.[1][2] Associate head coach D.J. Smith steps in as interim head coach for the remainder of the 2025-26 season, with former Kings defenseman Matt Greene joining the staff as an assistant.

General manager Ken Holland, in his first year with the organization, cited the need for a leadership shift to maximize the team’s potential. The Kings sit fifth in the Pacific Division with a record around 23-21-14, three points shy of a wild-card spot in the Western Conference.[3][4]

Reasons behind the coaching change

Hiller’s tenure began promisingly after he was elevated from interim to full-time head coach following Todd McLellan’s midseason dismissal in 2024. However, the team struggled to build on regular-season success in the playoffs, exiting early each of the past four years.

February proved disastrous, with the Kings outscored heavily post-Olympic break, including 14-5 deficits in two losses despite the blockbuster acquisition of star winger Artemi Panarin from the Rangers. The trade was meant to jolt the lineup, but results didn’t follow.[5]

Injuries compounded the issues. Forward Kevin Fiala suffered a gruesome leg injury representing Switzerland at the Olympics, sidelining him for the season. Andrei Kuzmenko underwent meniscus surgery and is week-to-week.

Holland praised Hiller’s professionalism in a statement: “I want to thank Jim Hiller for his dedication… These decisions are never made lightly, but our responsibility is to position this team for success now and moving forward.”[1]

Criticism peaked from last year’s playoffs, where Hiller’s failed coach’s challenge on Edmonton’s game-tying goal in Game 3 shifted momentum. The Kings blew a 2-0 series lead and lost four straight.

The move reflects urgency with captain Anze Kopitar in his announced final NHL season at age 38.

D.J. Smith’s background and expectations

D.J. Smith, 48, brings head coaching experience from five seasons with the Ottawa Senators (2019-2024). He joined Los Angeles as an associate coach after his Ottawa stint.

Smith inherits a talented but underperforming roster, tasked with steadying the ship through the playoff push. His familiarity with the staff and players could ease the transition.

Holland, the Hall of Famer behind Detroit’s dynasty, handpicked Smith for the interim role. Adding Matt Greene, a Kings Stanley Cup winner from 2012 and 2014, bolsters defensive coaching.

Early indicators will come soon, with the Kings facing a tough schedule. Smith’s power-play emphasis from Ottawa could address LA’s inconsistencies.

Fans hope this sparks a turnaround similar to other midseason changes, like Columbus firing Dean Evason earlier this year.[6]

Current Kings roster challenges

Standings pressure mounts in the Pacific, where Vancouver, Edmonton, and others vie for spots. LA’s 23-21-14 mark leaves little margin for error.[7]

Injuries hit hard: Fiala’s absence removes a top scorer, while Kuemper’s earlier neck issues tested depth. Panarin’s arrival brought fun moments, but production lags.[5]

Kopitar remains the anchor, chasing a storybook playoff run in his farewell. Kempe’s extension through 2033 signals long-term stability.

Goaltending has been solid at times, but defensive lapses persist.

• Key injuries:
  • Kevin Fiala: Out for season (leg)
  • Andrei Kuzmenko: Week-to-week (meniscus)
  • Darcy Kuemper: Recent return from neck

Playoff history and path forward

The Kings haven’t advanced past the first round since their 2014 Cup. Four straight losses to Edmonton highlight rivalry frustrations.

Last year’s challenge fiasco lingers as a symbol of close-but-no-cigar efforts.

Smith’s interim tag suggests a full search post-season, but success could change that. For more on the Kings’ front-office moves, see Ken Holland’s hiring.

With 20-plus games left, a wild-card berth is feasible if Smith ignites the group.

This shakeup tests Holland’s vision amid injuries and expectations. A deep run honors Kopitar’s legacy and reignites contender talk. The Pacific grind awaits—can Smith deliver? For full details, check the official announcement.[1]