Maple Leafs Promote AHL Coach John Gruden To Join Jim Hiller's Staff

Jul 7, 2026

The Toronto Maple Leafs made sweeping moves with their coaching staff, one of which was promoting John Gruden to the NHL bench. Gruden won the Calder Cup with the Toronto Marlies and more importantly, worked together with Jim Hiller when both were assistants under Barry Trotz.

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The Toronto Marlies Calder Cup-winning head coach joins Jim Hiller’s staff, bringing another layer of experience and leadership behind the bench.

thehockeynews.comJohn Gruden’s Maple Leafs Promotion Was Well-Deserved: What Comes Next?The Toronto Marlies Calder Cup-winning head coach joins Jim Hiller’s staff, bringing another layer of experience and leadership behind the bench.

What will Gruden bring to the Maple Leafs bench? Will the success from the AHL translate to the new-look Leafs? Express any opinions in the comment section below!