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'That Was My Decision': Maple Leafs' Coach Jim Hiller Admits To Mistake, Explains Benching Gavin McKenna Against Sabres

Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Jim Hiller took accountability for a controversial bench decision that limited rookie forward Gavin McKenna’s ice time during Thursday’s 5-4 overtime loss to the Buffalo Sabres. McKenna, an 18-year-old prospect, logged just 6:36 of play—his lowest total of the season—after being pulled early in the second period and not returned until the final minutes of the third.

Hiller admitted the call stemmed from a stretch of penalties and an attempt to manage the game’s momentum, though he acknowledged the move was a misstep. 'That was my decision,' Hiller said, noting McKenna’s maturity would help him process the situation without resentment.

The Leafs’ captain, Auston Matthews, who scored the game’s first goal, framed the oversight as a learning moment for the young player, emphasizing that McKenna’s hunger would drive him to perform in their next meeting against Buffalo. Hiller also hinted at lineup adjustments ahead of the rematch, including a reshuffled second and third line, as the team evaluates its offensive approach following the close defeat.

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