The Toronto Maple Leafs are getting mixed reviews online for hiring Jim Hiller as their new head coach.
The announcement on Wednesday caused a stir for multiple reasons, with the former Leafs assistant reportedly not affiliated with the team and not the type of coach some thought general manager John Chayka would hire.
Here are some reactions to this move on social networks:
“Strike Two for Chayka. An exhaustive month-long search and you end up with the guy who cost the LA Kings a playoff series against Edmonton two years ago?” – Michael Augello, Hockey News.
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“wut” – Greg Wyshnyski, ESPN.
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“Oilers get Babcock – Leafs get Babcock Jr.” – Drew Livingstone, SDPN Sports.
“Didn’t see this coming. Especially, neither did any of the insiders.” Nick Richard, Leaf Nation.
“Jim Hiller?? Of all the names thrown around, I’m shocked they just announced him. He was kept very secret. He knows the market and a lot of these players at least. Can’t say I’m overwhelmed either way.” – said former Maple Leaf player Jay Rosehill.
“Not too shocking, but I’m told coaching candidates have been told not to tell anyone about the process. The Leafs wanted this search to be kept as quiet as possible, and for the most part, they got it.” – Nick Alberga, The Nation Network.
“Not the most popular name, but one of the best and most respected coaches in the game.” – Andy Strickland, FanDuel Sports Network.
“In all honesty, that’s probably good. Strong defensive coach (maybe needs a few different defenders), familiar with the market and theory of second job with head coaches. Could work. We’ll see!” – Sam McKee, Sportsnet.
This report from The Canadian Press was first published on June 17, 2026.
&copies 2026 The Canadian Press
