Bruins Coach Discusses Lineup Decisions as Hagens' Pro Deal Lingers James Hagens, the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, remains in limbo as he awaits a decision on his professional contract with the Boston Bruins. The 19-year-old forward, who concluded his sophomore season at Boston College during the Hockey East semifinals, has yet to finalize an agreement with the Bruins. While he could potentially return to Boston College for a junior season, his college career has already provided ample proof of his talent, leaving little incentive to delay his pro transition. Hagens’ 2025-26 season saw him tally 47 points—23 goals and 24 assists—in 34 games, contributing to Boston College’s first Beanpot title since 2016. As a top-10 Hobey Baker Award finalist, his progression has positioned him as a prime candidate for an immediate NHL leap. However, the timing of his entry into professional hockey remains a point of contention. The Bruins face a strategic dilemma: signing Hagens to an entry-level contract (ELC) and having him report directly to the NHL could provide an immediate boost to their forward depth, especially with 12 regular-season games remaining. Alternatively, keeping him in the AHL with the Providence Bruins might allow the team to evaluate his readiness for the NHL while preserving flexibility with his contract. This approach could also delay his first NHL paycheck, potentially impacting his long-term earning potential. The Bruins’ approach may draw parallels to Charlie McAvoy’s path. McAvoy, a former Boston University standout, initially signed an amateur tryout with the Providence Bruins in 2017 before earning his ELC and breaking into the NHL during the playoffs.#boston_bruins #providence_bruins #marco_sturm #james_hagens #hockey_east
