Kings New GM Ken Holland Confirms Jim Hiller Remains Head Coach

New Los Angeles Kings general manager Ken Holland confirmed that Jim Hiller will return as head coach for the 2025-26 season, emphasizing his confidence in Hiller's leadership despite the team’s repeated playoff exits. Holland, who took over from Rob Blake, praised Hiller for guiding the Kings to a franchise-tying 105 points this past season and noted that Hiller will improve with the experience gained. The Kings have made four consecutive playoff appearances but have been eliminated in the first round each time by the Edmonton Oilers, including this season after losing four straight games following a 2-0 series lead. Holland highlighted the strong core of players, including Adrian Kempe and Vezina Trophy finalist Darcy Kuemper, as a solid foundation to build upon for a deeper playoff run. Hiller, who was promoted to head coach in February 2024, has a 69-37-10 regular-season record over two seasons and has earned a multiyear contract extension. Both Holland and Hiller expressed optimism about working together to push the Kings beyond their current playoff plateau.