Bruins Sign Top Prospect James Hagens to Entry-Level NHL Contract

The Boston Bruins have signed 2025 first-round draft pick James Hagens to a three-year, entry-level contract, General Manager Don Sweeney announced on April 8, 2026. The deal begins with the 2025-26 NHL season and carries an annual salary cap hit of $975,000. The 19-year-old forward, selected seventh overall, recently joined the AHL’s Providence Bruins on a tryout, scoring four points in six games after a dominant collegiate season at Boston College where he led Hockey East in scoring.

Key Takeaways:

The three-year contract starts in the 2025-26 season with a $975,000 annual cap hit.
Hagens, 19, was Boston’s first-round pick (7th overall) in the 2025 NHL Draft.
He recorded 47 points in 34 games for Boston College, leading Hockey East in scoring.
The forward has already played six AHL games with Providence, notching four points.

A Highly-Touted Prospect Joins the Pro Ranks

James Hagens transitions to professional hockey after a standout two-year career at Boston College. In his most recent season, the 5-foot-11, 193-pound forward paced all Hockey East skaters with 47 points, adding six game-winning goals. His performance built upon a strong freshman year where he earned Hockey East All-Rookie Team honors. Prior to college, Hagens was a star with the U.S. National Team Development Program, amassing 187 points.

International Pedigree and Championship Experience

Hagens brings significant international success to the Bruins organization. He has represented the United States in multiple World Junior and U-18 Men’s World Championships, winning gold at the 2025 World Juniors and the 2023 U-18 tournament. His most notable international achievement came in 2024 when he set the IIHF U-18 Men’s World Championship single-tournament scoring record with 22 points, earning MVP honors and a silver medal.

Immediate Impact in the AHL

Before signing his NHL deal, Hagens gained professional experience with the Providence Bruins on an amateur tryout agreement. In his six-game AHL stint, he registered one goal and three assists, demonstrating an immediate ability to contribute at the professional level. This trial period provided a crucial bridge between his collegiate career and his new entry-level contract with the parent club.

Conclusion:

The signing of James Hagens represents a significant investment in the Bruins’ future, securing one of their top prospects as he begins his professional journey. His proven scoring ability at the collegiate and international levels, combined with his initial success in the AHL, positions him as a player to watch for Boston in the coming seasons as he develops within the organization.