James Hagens’ Pro Hockey Future: Bruins’ Prospect Set to Sign After BC’s Season Ends
The Boston Bruins are on the cusp of adding a significant piece to their roster as James Hagens, their top prospect, is widely expected to sign his entry-level contract following the conclusion of his sophomore season with Boston College. The Eagles’ season ended Friday night with a 4-3 overtime loss to UConn in the Hockey East semifinals at TD Garden.
Season Finale and Path to the Pros
Boston College’s defeat in the Hockey East tournament means Hagens’s collegiate career has come to an end, paving the way for his anticipated jump to professional hockey. Prior to the season, Hagens had expressed goals of winning the Beanpot and a national championship before joining the Bruins, but his NHL aspirations have always been a driving force.1
Hagens’ Performance and Accolades
Hagens finished his season with an impressive 21 goals and 42 points in 32 games overall. In Hockey East play, he led the conference with 13 goals and 28 points in 24 games, earning him a nomination for Hockey East Player of the Year.4 He was also a top-10 finalist for the prestigious Hobey Baker Award.4
Bruins’ Plans for Hagens
Bruins General Manager Don Sweeney acknowledged after the trade deadline that the team was considering bringing up prospects this spring.1 Hagens could potentially slot onto Boston’s third line, which has seen rotation between Alex Steeves, Mikey Eyssimont, and Lukas Reichel. Alternatively, the Bruins could assign him to the Providence Bruins (AHL) on an amateur tryout agreement, though this would delay his eligibility to be recalled to the NHL until he signs his entry-level contract.
Past Precedent
The Bruins have taken different approaches with prospects in the past. Ryan Donato joined the Bruins late in the 2017-18 season directly from Harvard, while Charlie McAvoy initially joined Providence on an amateur tryout before being signed to an NHL deal due to injuries.1
Potential Debut Timeline
If Hagens signs with the Bruins quickly, he could potentially produce his debut as early as next Tuesday against the Toronto Maple Leafs, allowing time for a practice or two to acclimate to the team.1
Other Bruins Prospects
Along with Hagens, other Bruins prospects, including Dean Letourneau and Andre Gasseau, are also nearing potential professional careers. Gasseau is expected to sign an amateur tryout agreement with the Providence Bruins. The future of Letourneau and Oskar Jellvik remains less certain.4
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