Introduction to the New Era of the Kings

A New GM Takes the Helm

The Kings have announced that Jim Hiller will remain the team’s coach, as confirmed by new General Manager Ken Holland. Holland, a Hall of Fame hockey executive, expressed his praise for Hiller during his introductory news conference at the Kings’ training complex. Holland, who is returning to the NHL after a one-year absence, replaces Rob Blake as the team’s GM.

Holland’s Vision for the Team

Holland made it clear that he is not looking to make drastic changes to the team, which has made four straight playoff appearances but has been eliminated by the Oilers in the first round each time. He plans to retain the assistant GMs and hockey executives who worked under Blake, and he has confirmed that Hiller will remain the team’s coach. "Jim is going to be the coach," Holland said. "Jim Hiller did a fabulous job in leading the team to 105 points. They were good defensively. They were good on special teams. The team played hard."

The Coach’s Future

Hiller, who replaced Todd McLellan in February 2024, will return for another season after leading the team to a franchise-record 48 wins and 105 points. Holland and Hiller spent two hours discussing the team’s future, and Holland believes that Hiller’s experience this season will make him a better coach next year. The Kings tied the franchise records for victories and points under Hiller, but they lost four straight playoff games to Edmonton after taking a 2-0 lead.

Building on Success

Holland knows that his job is to take the Kings to the next level and get them off their current plateau. "I’m hoping to add something to it, maybe a little different idea," Holland said. "I’m looking forward to getting going. … I understand that this is a marketplace that’s really competitive. You talk about all the competition for the entertainment dollar, so it’s important that you win and you compete." Holland believes that the team’s experiences over the past few years will benefit them in the long run.

A New Chapter for the Kings

The Kings’ search for a new GM quickly zeroed in on Holland, who spent the past year working in the NHL’s hockey operations division after leaving the Oilers. Kings president Luc Robitaille said the team is "very fortunate" to hire Holland, citing his experience and knowledge of what it takes to win a championship. Holland won one Stanley Cup as an assistant GM in Detroit and three more during his 22 years as the Wings’ GM.

Holland’s Background

Holland spent five years as the GM of the Edmonton Oilers, leading the team to the playoffs in all five years and advancing to the Stanley Cup Final last year. He said he wasn’t sure if he would return to a front office after leaving Edmonton, but he’s ready to get back to work. Holland spent the winter watching games and working alongside NHL director of hockey operations Colin Campbell, and he’s excited to be back in the saddle.

A New Home for Holland

Holland called Los Angeles "one of the great sports cities in all the world," and he’s already getting to know the city. He spent the past two nights in a hotel in Manhattan Beach, where many of the Kings’ players and executives live. Holland’s family is also excited about the move, with his wife and grandkids looking forward to watching Kings games and visiting Disneyland.

Conclusion

The Kings have a new GM at the helm, and Jim Hiller will remain the team’s coach. Holland brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the team, and he’s excited to get started. With a strong roster and a commitment to winning, the Kings are looking to take the next step and become a legitimate Stanley Cup contender.

FAQs

• Q: Who is the new GM of the Kings?
  A: Ken Holland is the new GM of the Kings.
• Q: Will Jim Hiller remain the team’s coach?
  A: Yes, Jim Hiller will remain the team’s coach.
• Q: What is Holland’s experience in the NHL?
  A: Holland has 22 years of experience as the GM of the Detroit Red Wings and five years as the GM of the Edmonton Oilers.
• Q: What are the Kings’ expectations for next season?
  A: The Kings are looking to build on their success and become a legitimate Stanley Cup contender.