Toronto Maple Leafs appoint Jim Heller as head coach

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced the hiring of Jim Heller as the franchise's 41st head coach. Heller, 57, returns to Toronto after serving as an assistant coach for the club from 2015 to 2019 and previously leading the Los Angeles Kings as head coach, where he compiled a 93‑58‑24 record over three seasons before being dismissed on March 1 following an 8‑1 loss to Edmonton.

Heller replaces Craig Berube, who was fired on May 13 after two seasons. The move is part of a broader off‑season overhaul led by new general manager John Chayka, who praised Heller's experience with “high‑performing teams” and his clear coaching approach. The Leafs finished last in the Atlantic Division and 28th overall in the league last season, prompting the coaching change. Heller expressed excitement about returning to a “special organization with great players, passionate fans and high expectations.”