With the Kings announcing Hiller as the new head coach, is he the right man for the job?
The Los Angeles Kings have removed the interim tag from Jim Hiller and have made him the 30th coach in franchise history.
He has the experience, vision, and leadership to steer the Kings to success. With a lengthy coaching career spanning various leagues and teams, he brings knowledge and experience to the table.
His proven ability to develop young talent from his time in the WHL. He can also maximize the potential of seasoned players, making him a good candidate for the role.
He has experience with head coaches like Mike Babcock with both the Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs. Barry Trotz with the New York Islanders and former Kings' head coach Todd McLellan, who Hiller replaced after he was let go.
Aside from his resume, Hiller's coaching strategies align with the Kings' organizational values. He prioritizes teamwork, discipline, and a relentless work ethic, traits that are essential for building a championship-calibre team, similar to those of the Kings team that won the Cup in 2012 and 2014.
It is expected that the team will also bring back D.J. Smith, who has been a long-time colleague of Hiller. The next step would be making the necessary changes to their team systems. For example, Kevin Fiala mentioned that he would like to try a different system than the 1-3-1 style that they've been playing.
Hiller will need to work with his staff to find a new system that can help the team find the most success and hopefully win the Stanley Cup.
In Hiller, the LA Kings have found not just a coach but a visionary leader who has the skills and determination to guide the team to greatness.