Boston College Star James Hagens Signs with Boston Bruins

Highly touted prospect looks to make immediate impact in the NHL after standout NCAA career.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:24pm

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A cubist, geometric illustration depicting a hockey player's movements and actions on the ice, with sharp planes of black, gold, and white representing the Boston Bruins' colors.The Boston Bruins' future takes shape as prospect James Hagens makes the jump from college to the NHL.Boston Today

James Hagens, a top prospect who was selected 7th overall by the Boston Bruins in last year's NHL draft, has signed his entry-level contract with the team. Hagens spent the last two weeks playing on an amateur tryout with the Bruins' AHL affiliate in Providence, where he made an immediate impact with 4 points in 6 games. The skilled center from Boston College is now set to join the Bruins and compete for a spot in their lineup as they push for a playoff berth.

Why it matters

Hagens is seen as a potential building block for the Bruins' future, as the team looks to transition from their current core of stars like David Pastrnak and Charlie McAvoy. His successful transition to the pro game could accelerate the Bruins' rebuild and provide a boost to their offense.

The details

After a strong sophomore season at Boston College where he put up 47 points in 34 games, Hagens opted to forgo his final two years of NCAA eligibility and sign his entry-level deal with the Bruins. He impressed during his brief stint in the AHL, showcasing his high-end skill and playmaking ability. The Bruins plan to use Hagens primarily on the wing to start, though they view him as a long-term center. With the Bruins on the verge of clinching a playoff spot, Hagens will have the chance to get his first taste of NHL action before the postseason.

  • Hagens signed his entry-level contract with the Bruins on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.
  • He practiced with the Bruins for the first time on Thursday, April 10, 2026.
  • The Bruins have 3 regular season games remaining before the playoffs begin.

The players

James Hagens

A 21-year-old center who was selected 7th overall by the Boston Bruins in the 2025 NHL Draft. He spent the last two seasons at Boston College, where he emerged as one of the top players in college hockey.

Marco Sturm

The head coach of the Boston Bruins, who has said he plans to use Hagens primarily on the wing to start, though he sees him as a long-term center.

David Pastrnak

A star forward for the Boston Bruins who is entering his 30s, making Hagens a potential building block for the team's next generation.

Charlie McAvoy

A star defenseman for the Boston Bruins who is also entering his 30s, making Hagens a potential building block for the team's next generation.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to have James join our team and get his first taste of NHL action. He's a talented young player with a bright future, and we believe he can be a key part of our team's next chapter.”

— Marco Sturm, Head Coach, Boston Bruins

What’s next

The Bruins have three regular season games remaining before the playoffs begin. Hagens will look to make an impression and earn a spot in the lineup for the postseason.

The takeaway

The signing of James Hagens represents an exciting new chapter for the Boston Bruins, as they transition from their current core of stars to a new generation of talent. Hagens' successful transition to the NHL could accelerate the team's rebuild and provide a much-needed boost to their offense.