Toronto Maple Leafs hire Jim Hiller as head coach

June 17 (UPI) -- The Toronto Maple Leafs hired Jim Hiller to replaced former coach Craig Berube, they announced Wednesday.

Hiller, 57, spent the last three seasons with the Los Angeles Kings. He was fired in March after leading the Kings to a 93-58-24 record, including a 24-21-14 mark this season.

The Kings went 48-25-9 in Hiller's second season. They advanced to the Stanley Cup playoffs in each of his three seasons as coach.

"I'm incredibly excited for the opportunity to return to Toronto and lead the Maple Leafs," Hiller said in a news release. "This is a special organization with great players, passionate fans and high expectations.

"I'm looking forward to getting to work with our players and staff and doing everything we can to help this team reach its full potential."

Berube led the Maple Leafs to an 84-62-18 record over two seasons, including a 52-win campaign in his first year as coach.

Hiller previously worked as an assistant for the Kings, Detroit Red Wings and New York Islanders.

"Jim is an experienced coach with a strong understanding of what it takes to win in today's NHL," Maple Leafs general manager John Chayka said. "He has worked with successful teams throughout his career, connects well with players and brings a clear approach behind the bench.

"We believe he's the right person to lead our team and help us reach our goals."

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This story was originally published June 17, 2026 at 7:12 AM.