Leafs coaching hire gets mixed reaction

The Toronto Maple Leafs' decision to appoint Jim Hiller as their new head coach has sparked a divided online response, with many expressing surprise at the selection.

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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?

The announcement on Wednesday revealed Hiller, a former Leafs assistant, was chosen despite not being a prominent name in recent coaching rumors. This led some to question the direction General Manager John Chayka is taking the team.

Reactions on social media varied widely. Michael Augello of The Hockey News questioned the choice, asking if it was "Strike Two for Chayka" and referencing Hiller's past with the LA Kings. Greg Wyshnyski of ESPN simply responded with "wut," while Drew Livingstone of SDPN Sports compared the hire to the Oilers' acquisition of Babcock, dubbing Hiller "Babcock Jr."

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wut

Others were caught off guard by the lack of insider speculation. Nick Richard of The Leafs Nation noted, "Did not see this one coming. Notably, neither did any of the insiders." Former Maple Leaf player Jay Rosehill expressed shock but acknowledged Hiller's familiarity with the market and players. Nick Alberga of The Nation Network suggested the Leafs successfully kept their search quiet.

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Oilers get Babcock – Leafs got Babcock Jr.

Despite the surprise, some offered a more measured view. Andy Strickland of FanDuel Sports Network described Hiller as "one of the nicest, most respectful coaches in the game." Sam McKee of Sportsnet suggested the hire could be "fine," highlighting Hiller's potential as a strong defensive coach and his familiarity with the team, concluding, "Could work. We’ll see!"

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Did not see this one coming. Notably, neither did any of the insiders.