Jim Hiller Remains Head Coach of LA Kings Despite Playoff Challenges

Thursday, May 23rd, 2024

The Los Angeles Kings have announced that Jim Hiller will continue as the main coach, following a confirmation by the team's General Manager, Rob Blake. Having once been an assistant for the Kings, Hiller stepped up as the head coach after Todd McLellan's departure in February, guiding the team to secure a third-tier position in the Pacific Division.

Under Hiller's guidance over three successful seasons, the team consistently made it to the playoffs. However, each season ended with a first-round exit, a trend that does not seem to push the Kings towards any drastic team overhauls. Hiller's coaching strategy emphasizes a defense-first approach, something he believes has strengthened the team, albeit he admits there’s room for bettering their attack without losing their defensive stronghold.

The Kings have been distinguished for their robust defense, being one of the top teams in minimizing goals against them during the regular season. Despite this, their offense, even with the presence of high-caliber forwards, has performed only moderately. Hiller is looking into ways to enhance their attacking strategies within the current framework.

Investments in top forwards like Kevin Fiala and Pierre-Luc Dubois have not yet translated into playoff success, a challenge since the Kings last clinched the Stanley Cup in 2014. Blake is keen on fostering a more competitive spirit within the team, aiming for a culture that propels them beyond current achievements.

Hiller, who was originally drafted by the Kings in 1989, expresses a strong dedication to coaching, a path influenced by his time with Stanley Cup victor Jacques Lemaire. His new contract extends over three years and includes an option for a fourth, based on performance incentives.

Assistant coach D.J. Smith will stay on with the team, and plans are in place to bring on board a new assistant coach specifically to enhance the power play, filling the role previously occupied by Hiller

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