James Hagens, Bruins prospect, joins the AHL affiliate
The Boston Bruins’ star prospect, James Hagens, will join the AHL affiliate team in Providence, Rhode Island, after signing an amateur player tryout agreement, the team announced on Monday. Hagens, selected at number 7 in the 2025 draft, is the Bruins’ highest draft pick since they chose Tyler Seguin at number 2 in 2010. The Hauppauge, New York native had a standout season for Boston College, leading Hockey East and finishing in the top 10 nationally in scoring (23 goals and 47 points in 34 games). With 19 years old, Hagens scored six game-winning goals this season and achieved two hat-tricks. However, Boston College did not qualify for the NCAA tournament, and the sophomore decided to sign a professional contract.The Bruins and Hagens held conversations over the last two days about their roadmap in professional hockey. According to sources, Hagens focused primarily on what would give him the best chance to play a full 84-game season in the NHL next season, although he believes he can contribute in the NHL immediately. While many evaluators agree that the 5-foot-11, 193-pound Hagens could add a boost to Boston’s lineup, the Bruins generally like their prospects to have time in the minor leagues before being called up. The Bruins will evaluate Hagens’ situation day by day. Boston is in the midst of a tight playoff race in the Eastern Conference. With a big win over the Red Wings on Saturday, Boston is holding onto the first wild card spot. Hagens, who can play both center and wing, has been a star for Team USA on the international youth stage. He won gold at the 2025 Youth World Cup, and in 2014 he set the single-tournament scoring record at the Men’s Under-18 World Championship with 22 points in seven games, earning tournament MVP honors.College hockey has been surpassed.
A scout
