A former Kootenay International Junior ‘A’ Hockey League (KIJHL) alum who played for the Cranbrook Colts is now the head coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Leafs announced today that Jim Hiller has been hired as the hockey club’s head coach.
“Jim is an experienced coach with a strong understanding of what it takes to win in today’s NHL,” John Chayka, General Manager, Toronto Maple Leafs, said in a release.
“He has worked with successful teams throughout his career, connects well with players and brings a clear approach behind the bench.”
Hiller previously played in the KIJHL for the Cranbrook Colts in 1985-87.
A native of Port Alberni, British Columbia, he served as an assistant coach for Canada at the 2010 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament, where they captured a gold medal.
Hiller was originally selected by the Los Angeles Kings in the 10th round (207th overall) of the 1989 NHL Draft and played 63 career NHL games with Los Angeles, recording 20 points (eight goals, 12 assists).
He becomes the 41st head coach in franchise history, previously serving as an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Kings for two seasons before being promoted to head coach from 2023-24 through 2025-26.
Hiller compiled a combined 93-58-24 record and a .600 win percentage in 175 games with Los Angeles.
This isn’t his first time with Toronto, as he previously served as an assistant coach from 2015-16 to 2018-19.
“I’m incredibly excited for the opportunity to return to Toronto and lead the Maple Leafs,” Hiller said in a release.
During his four seasons in Toronto, the Maple Leafs qualified for the Stanley Cup Playoffs on three occasions.
Hiller spent 11 seasons coaching junior hockey in Canada for the Western Hockey League and British Columbia Hockey League before joining the NHL ranks.
“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,” Hiller said.
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