nhl

Kings fire Todd McLellan

Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
McLellan is out in his fifth season as head coach.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — The Los Angeles Kings fired head coach Todd McLellan, who went from high to low within months. The team announced the move on Friday during his fifth season with the team.

The Kings have been in a slump since a hot start, coming close to first place in the Pacific Division, and have fallen to fourth. They were 3-7-5 in Jan., reaching a low standings-wise.

The Kings appointed Jim Hiller as interim head coach for the remainder of the 2022-23 season. He joined the Kings in 2022 as an assistant coach after time with the New York Islanders, Toronto Maple Leads, and Detroit Red Wings.

“We want to thank Todd for his hard work and dedication to the organization,” said general manager, Rob Blake. “He has done a tremendous job in moving us forward and making a positive impact on our group and in our community. This was not an easy decision, but we felt the change was necessary at this time. Jim is a well-respected member of our staff who is familiar with our players. We are confident in his ability to lead our team effectively during this pivotal time.”

Hiller will begin the head coaching role, looking to turn around the Kings’ season. They have 56 points and are in the first Wild Card spot