Could Morgan Rielly’s new role under Jim Hiller reshape the Maple Leafs’ NHL defense this new season

Morgan Rielly’s play of late with former Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube has been under fire, especially with respect to his overall play defensively and consistency. More talk about his future with the organization was generated in the offseason because of that.Rielly was a major topic of criticism during the offseason, with some parts of the Toronto fanbase and media calling for the Maple Leafs to consider trading him. But Hiller’s comments suggest the new head coach is more focused on capitalising on Rielly’s strengths rather than revisiting those concerns.What did Jim Hiller say about Morgan Rielly’s role?Jim Hiller stated Morgan Rielly is getting a fresh start and that the Toronto Maple Leafs are expecting a strong season from their veteran defenseman.The 32-year-old defenceman is staying with Toronto as training camp begins. His role, experience, and offensive ability still make him an important part of the Maple Leafs’ blue line.Morgan Rielly might get more chances in offensive situations this upcoming NHL season, Jim Hiller has indicated.Hiller also mentioned Radko Gudas as a potential defensive partner for Rielly. The tandem would combine Rielly’s puck-moving and offensive skills with Gudas’ physicality and defensive experience for Toronto.The coaching staff is also expected to give Rielly some looks with some of Toronto’s top-six forwards. That could give the defenseman more to do on offensive-zone shifts and allow him to have a more direct impact on the Maple Leafs’ attack.What does this mean for Toronto Maple Leafs?The comments offered an early glimpse into how Jim Hiller intends to handle Morgan Rielly now that he’s taken over as Toronto’s head coach.Rather than constrict Rielly's role after a rough stretch, Hiller appears prepared to give him a crucial role. The method stresses the need to create opportunities for Rielly’s skating, puck movement, and offensive instincts to be put to use.When the 2026-27 NHL season begins, the Toronto Maple Leafs will be watching Rielly’s play very closely. Alongside Radko Gudas and other more high-profile forwards, his deployment may be a key sub-plot in the early part of the campaign.Hiller said he understood the criticism directed at Rielly, but he did not agree. He said he has confidence in the defenseman and expects Rielly to have a good year.The message is a definite change of emphasis under the new coaching staff. Rielly enters training camp with an opportunity to reassert himself as a key cog in the Toronto Maple Leafs’ defensive and offensive transition game.Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Jim Hiller will give Morgan Rielly a clean slate to start the 2026-27 NHL season. Despite offseason criticism, Hiller has stood by the veteran defenseman and outlined plans for more offensive-zone usage, a potential pairing with Radko Gudas and opportunities with Toronto’s top-six forwards.Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.