The Los Angeles Kings’ front office decided to shake up their reeling team by trading two-way center Phillip Danault to the Montreal Canadiens on Friday evening. The Kings had aspirations of being a contender for the highest spot within the Pacific Division this season. After some inconsistent play and now sitting in a wildcard spot, some are questioning whether or not they need an excellent greater shake-up. Nevertheless, Jim Hiller’s job as head coach is protected for now, in accordance with Helene Elliott via X, formerly often called Twitter.
“I expect [Jim Hiller] to be here the remaining of the season,” Holland told reporters after the Danault trade.
One issue with Hiller is that he is not the most well-liked coach amongst the fanbase. He plays a more retro, defensive type of hockey that some fans don’t enjoy watching. The Kings have some talented offensive pieces in Quinton Byfield and Adrian Kempe, but the assumption is that Hiller is holding them back a bit.
It makes the Danault trade much more interesting. In Hiller’s system, Danault is a bit that might have some value given his defensive tendencies. Holland says that the trade opens a possibility for Alex Turcotte and Samuel Helenius, who’re two young pieces. It seems the front office is forcing Hiller’s hand to decide on youth over more reliable veterans.
That strategy is taking Hiller out of his comfort zone. While Holland says that Hiller’s job is protected, he could quickly re-evaluate that if the top coach keeps holding back the offense and a few of their young prospects.