Bruins Sign James Hagens to Amateur Tryout Agreement
The Boston Bruins have signed forward James Hagens to an Amateur Tryout Agreement (ATO), the team announced Tuesday. This move allows the highly touted prospect to join the Providence Bruins for practice and continue his development within the organization.
“We’re particularly excited to have James join the Bruins organization and seize this next step,” said Bruins General Manager Don Sweeney. “James is an critical part of our future, and this is a great opportunity for him to receive immediate experience at the professional level in Providence and continue his development, even as keeping all options open.”
Hagens’ Impressive Collegiate Career
Hagens, 19, was originally selected by the Bruins in the first round (seventh overall) of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. He recently concluded a standout two-year career at Boston College.
In 34 games with the Eagles this season, Hagens led Hockey East in scoring with 23 goals and 24 assists for a total of 47 points. He also led the team in game-winning goals (6), hat tricks (2), and shots on goal (133).
Over his two seasons (2024-26) at Boston College, Hagens appeared in 71 games, totaling 34 goals and 50 assists for 84 points. He was named to the Hockey East All-Rookie Team after recording 37 points (11 goals, 26 assists) in the 2024-25 season.
USNTDP and International Success
Prior to joining Boston College, Hagens spent two seasons (2022-24) with the United States National Team Development Program (USNTDP), where he established himself as a prolific scorer. He recorded 72 goals and 115 assists for 187 points, the fifth-most in program history.
Hagens has also represented the United States on the international stage, participating in two IIHF World Junior Championships (2025, 2026) and two IIHF U-18 Men’s World Championships (2023, 2024). He earned a gold medal at the 2025 World Juniors and the 2023 U-18 tournament. At the 2024 U-18 Men’s World Championship, Hagens set a tournament record with 22 points, earning MVP honors and helping the United States capture a silver medal.
Next Steps for Hagens
Hagens will join the Providence Bruins for their practice on Tuesday, March 24, at Amica Mutual Pavilion. This ATO provides him with a valuable opportunity to acclimate to professional hockey and potentially contribute to the Bruins’ playoff push. Speculation has centered around Hagens potentially joining the Bruins during a playoff run, should they advance.
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