Maple Leafs Name Jim Hiller Head Coach

The Toronto Maple Leafs hired Jim Hiller as head coach, according to team announcements Wednesday. Hiller, who previously served as an assistant with the club from 2015-19, replaces Craig Berube as part of a front-office overhaul led by new general manager John Chayka following a season where Toronto finished 28th overall in the NHL.

Why did the Maple Leafs hire Jim Hiller?

General manager John Chayka cited Hiller’s experience in the Toronto market and his knowledge of the organization as primary reasons for the hire. Chayka stated that Hiller’s background created “conviction” that he was the right person for the current group of players.

Hiller, 57, is the 41st head coach in franchise history. He most recently led the Los Angeles Kings, where he posted a 93-58-24 record over parts of three seasons before being fired on March 1 following an 8-1 loss to Edmonton.

Did You Know? Jim Hiller is the 41st head coach in the history of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

How will Hiller’s coaching philosophy work?

Hiller told reporters Wednesday that a coach’s greatest impact is “guiding the spirit of the team.” He emphasized the need for player buy-in and a culture where players are “excited to play” the designated style and system.

Hiller and Chayka both support the use of analytics in decision-making. Hiller said analytics help coaches be better informed and “point you in better directions,” while Chayka noted he wants the coaching staff to be an “extension of our front office.”

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the alignment between Chayka’s data-driven background and Hiller’s openness to analytics suggests a strategic shift toward a more integrated, resource-heavy approach to player management and game strategy.

What changes were made to the front office and roster?

The Maple Leafs hired John Chayka as general manager and Mats Sundin as a senior executive advisor on Sunday. Chayka replaced Brad Treliving after the team missed the playoffs for the first time in a decade.

Chayka began reshaping the roster Tuesday by trading goaltender Joseph Woll and defenseman Simon Benoit to the Philadelphia Flyers. In exchange, Toronto received defenseman Emil Andrae, goaltender Samuel Ersson, and a third-round pick for next week’s NHL draft.

What led to the overhaul in Toronto?

The team experienced a sharp decline in performance this past season. According to team records, Toronto finished atop the Atlantic Division in 2024-25 and reached the second round of the playoffs, but subsequently finished last in the division and 28th overall in the league.

Toronto Maple Leafs hiring Jim Hiller as head coach 🚨

Chayka described the leadership changes as an “opportunity to start fresh.” He revealed the team interviewed over 25 candidates, including Stanley Cup winners, recently retired players, and candidates from Europe, college, and junior leagues.

What happens next for the Maple Leafs?

Toronto is likely to focus on the upcoming NHL draft, where they hold the No. 1 overall pick. This marks the first time the team has held the top pick since selecting Auston Matthews in 2016.

Under Hiller, the team may prioritize establishing a new “style of play” to reverse the standings drop. The coaching staff could use the resources provided by the front office to leverage analytics for the upcoming season.

Other League Moves

The Vegas Golden Knights announced Wednesday they have promoted Ryan Craig to head coach. Craig, previously the organization’s AHL coach in Henderson, Nev., replaces John Tortorella.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the new head coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs?

Jim Hiller was hired as the head coach, replacing Craig Berube.

Which players were traded to the Philadelphia Flyers?

The Maple Leafs traded goaltender Joseph Woll and depth defenseman Simon Benoit.

Who is the new general manager of the Maple Leafs?

John Chayka was hired as the general manager, replacing Brad Treliving.

Do you think a data-driven approach can return the Maple Leafs to the top of the Atlantic Division?