Toronto Hires New GM and Coach to Fix Leaky Defense
The Maple Leafs end a nine-year playoff streak by making sweeping changes to their roster and coaching staff.
Key points
- Toronto hired John Chayka as GM and Jim Hiller as head coach after missing the playoffs.
- The team acquired Darren Raddysh and drafted Gavin McKenna with the first overall pick.
- The defense must improve from allowing 32.4 shots and 3.60 goals per game last season.
Toronto Maple Leafs officials moved quickly to reshape the franchise after missing the 2026 playoffs. The team ended a nine-season postseason run by falling out of the race in April.
A losing streak of eight games sealed their fate. The club now faces a rebuild focused on defensive stability and new leadership in the front office.
New Leadership Takes Charge
John Chayka arrived as general manager on May 3. He replaces Brad Treliving and brings fresh eyes to hockey operations. Mats Sundin also joined as a senior executive adviser.
Jim Hiller was named head coach on June 17. He leaves the Los Angeles Kings after three seasons. Hiller previously led the Kings to the playoffs twice but never advanced past the first round.
Major Roster Additions
The Leafs acquired defenseman Darren Raddysh from Tampa Bay. He signed an eight-year contract after a career-best season. His 70 points and plus-21 rating highlight his offensive value.
They also won the draft lottery for the top pick. Forward Gavin McKenna joins the roster from Penn State. The 18-year-old recorded 51 points in 35 college games last year.
Fixing the Defensive Core
The defense allowed a league-high 32.4 shots per game last year. They also conceded 3.60 goals per night. Hiller’s previous teams allowed only 2.74 goals and 27.2 shots per game.
Goalie Sergei Bobrovsky signed a three-year deal on July 1. The 37-year-old brings championship experience to the crease. With the forward core healthy, this defensive shift is crucial.
