Maple Leafs’ Jim Hiller explains how Darren Raddysh addition makes team better

The Toronto Maple Leafs went through a disastrous 2025-26 regular season as they failed to make the playoffs even though they went into the year as one of the favorites to represent the Eastern Conference in the Stanley Cup Finals. The Maple Leafs have went through a housecleaning since the end of the season, and Jim Hiller has replaced Craig Berube as the team’s new head coach.

"I don't think they're that far off."

Jim Hiller joins @AnnaNoelleDua to discuss how the Leafs can get back on track after a down season. pic.twitter.com/BHXaORzqOq

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) June 25, 2026

Miller was the surprise selection of new general manager John Chayka, but both men received great news when the Leafs were the shocking winner of the NHL Draft Lottery. As a result of that good fortune, the Leafs will have the No. 1 pick in Friday’s NHL Draft. They are expected to take top prospect Gavin McKenna of the Penn State with that vaunted spot.

Prior to the draft, the Maple Leafs pulled off a trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning as they acquired right-shot defenseman Darren Raddysh. Hiller expects Raddysh to pick up where he left off with the Lightning and add to the Toronto power play.

Raddysh scored 22 goals and 70 points for the Lightning last year, eclipsing his career highs in goals and assists. Raddysh has played five years with the Lightning, and last season was the only time he had exceeded 6 goals in a season.

The Leafs believe that Raddysh has found his best form and he will continue to score big goals while lining up for the Maple Leafs. Hiller said that the Leafs should put last season behind them and show they are once again one of the top teams in the NHL. He believes that Raddysh and his huge shot will help them rebuild their success.

The post Maple Leafs’ Jim Hiller explains how Darren Raddysh addition makes team better appeared first on ClutchPoints.