LA Kings fire head coach Todd McLellan
The LA Kings have fired their head coach, Todd McLellan, who is the 6th NHL coach let go this season.
"We want to thank Todd for his hard work and dedication to the organization," said LA Kings Vice President and General Manger Rob Blake. "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."
Thank you for everything, Todd 🖤 pic.twitter.com/RsvGIQkTXx
— LA Kings (@LAKings) February 2, 2024
LA Kings named Jim Hiller interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Hiller joined the LA Kings in 2022 and has spent the last two seasons (2022-24) as an assistant coach.
The Kings are 23-15-10 and in fourth place in the eight-team Pacific Division but 3-8-6 in their last 17 games. They were 16-4-3 to start the season, including an 11-0-0 road record, the longest road winning steak to start an NHL season.
The Kings are seventh in the NHL's Western Conference and have the first wild-card playoff spot. They will resume play following the All-Star break Feb. 10 by playing host to the Edmonton Oilers.