Bruins Sign Top Draft Pick Hagens

Boston's long-awaited move to bolster their third line wing position

Apr. 9, 2026 at 1:44am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey player in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of black, gold, and white representing the Boston Bruins' team colors.The Bruins' addition of top prospect Evan Hagens injects new energy and potential into their forward depth.Philadelphia Today

The Boston Bruins have signed their top draft pick, 22-year-old winger Evan Hagens, to a multi-year contract. Hagens was a highly coveted prospect who was expected to be selected in the first round of the recent NHL Draft, but surprisingly fell to the Bruins in the second round. The move comes as the Bruins have struggled to find consistent production from their third line left wing position in recent seasons.

Why it matters

The Bruins have been searching for a long-term solution at third line left wing, a key position in their system. Hagens was viewed as one of the top offensive talents in the draft class, and his addition could provide a significant boost to Boston's forward depth and secondary scoring.

The details

Hagens, a 6'1" power forward, recorded 32 goals and 41 assists in 68 games for his junior team last season. He is known for his combination of size, skill, and two-way ability. The Bruins are hoping Hagens can step in and solidify their third line, which has been a revolving door in recent years.

  • The Bruins signed Hagens on April 8, 2026.
  • Hagens was selected by the Bruins in the second round of the 2026 NHL Draft on June 25, 2026.

The players

Evan Hagens

A 22-year-old winger who was the Bruins' second-round draft pick in 2026 and has now signed a multi-year contract with the team.

Porter Martone

A recent draft pick of the Philadelphia Flyers who has provided a boost to their lineup.

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What they’re saying

“Evan is the type of power forward we've been looking to add to our lineup. His combination of size, skill, and two-way ability makes him a perfect fit for our system.”

— Don Sweeney, General Manager, Boston Bruins

What’s next

Hagens is expected to compete for a roster spot with the Bruins during training camp this fall, with the goal of cracking the team's opening night lineup.

The takeaway

The Bruins' signing of Evan Hagens represents a significant investment in their future, as they look to bolster their forward depth and find a long-term solution at the third line left wing position. Hagens' combination of size, skill, and two-way ability make him an intriguing prospect who could provide an immediate impact for the Bruins.