The Jim Hiller era is officially underway.

Like most Leafs fans, we’re taking a wait-and-see approach. It’s not all that different from the reaction when the John Chayka-Mats Sundin partnership was first announced.

That’s where the conversation started on Thursday’s edition of Leafs Morning Take. Rosie’s belief in the Chayka administration has grown significantly over the past few weeks. He outlined why he thinks the organization is finally moving in the right direction and why he’s optimistic about what’s ahead.

I’m still a bit more cautious. It feels like everyone has already forgotten about the hiring process itself and the criticism the Leafs faced when they brought Chayka aboard. Time will tell, but there’s still plenty of work to be done. If there’s one thing we’ve learned so far, it’s to expect the unexpected.

From there, we combed through some of the key takeaways from Wednesday’s media availability featuring Chayka and Hiller. The more Chayka spoke, the more the hire seemed to fit the vision he’s trying to establish. Alignment was a recurring theme throughout the discussion. As for Hiller, one of his biggest priorities is strengthening the spirit of the team. Simply put, he wants hockey to be fun again. He spoke about bringing energy, enthusiasm, and speed back to the way the Leafs play. Ultimately, it’s far too early to make any sweeping declarations about this new regime—positive or negative. The work has only just begun.

Meantime, the Toronto Marlies are one win away from capturing the Calder Cup. Following Tuesday’s 1-0 victory over Chicago, they hold a commanding 3-0 series lead in the Final and will look to complete the sweep in Game 4.

Meantime, Barry Trotz had nothing but positive things to say about Jim Hiller during his appearance on the show. Having worked alongside Hiller with the Islanders from 2019-2022, Trotz praised his communication skills, hockey IQ, leadership, and ability to connect with players. He believes Hiller is more than ready for the challenge of coaching in Toronto and encouraged Leafs fans to embrace the change. Simply put, Trotz feels the Maple Leafs have hired a coach who is prepared for the spotlight and capable of helping the organization take the next step.

Then, we debated the idea of the Leafs pursuing Buffalo Sabres defenceman Bowen Byram. According to Darren Dreger, multiple teams are exploring a trade for Byram, who has one year remaining on his current deal before becoming an unrestricted free agent next summer. Complicating matters is the fact that his agent, Darren Ferris, has a history of guiding clients to free agency. For me, the only way a move like this makes sense for Toronto is if they can work out an extension beforehand. It doesn’t make much sense to give up significant assets for a player you could potentially lose for nothing a year later. At the end of the day, it comes down to one question: are the Leafs willing to pay Byram what he’s likely going to command on his next contract?

Lots coming your way on Friday’s edition of Leafs Morning Take as David Pagnotta returns as co-host. First, we’ll break down a whirlwind week for the Maple Leafs and discuss how everything came together. Then, Dennis Bernstein, Senior Writer with The Fourth Period, joins the show to share his insight on Jim Hiller after covering him extensively in Los Angeles. We’ll also react to whatever unfolds in the Marlies game.

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