Boston Bruins Sign Top Prospect James Hagens to Entry-Level Contract: A Promising Future on Causeway Street
Exciting news has emerged from Causeway Street as the Boston Bruins officially announced the signing of top prospect James Hagens to a three-year entry-level contract. The deal comes with an annual cap hit of $975,000 and marks a significant step in Hagens' promising career. At just 19 years old, Hagens was the seventh overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft and has already shown his potential with impressive performances at Boston College and the Providence Bruins.
Hagens' contract will not slide to next year due to NHL rules, making the remainder of the 2025-26 season the first year of his deal. This means that he will not be able to return to the AHL, where he had previously played with the Providence Bruins on an amateur tryout agreement. With his entry into the NHL, Hagens is set to make a strong impact on the ice and contribute to the Bruins' success in the seasons to come.
During his time at Boston College, Hagens showcased his skills by scoring 34 goals and 84 points in 71 games over two seasons. His standout performance in the 2025-26 season, where he led Hockey East with 47 points, solidified his status as a top prospect in the league. Additionally, Hagens made a positive impression during his brief stint with the P-Bruins, recording one goal and three assists in six games and demonstrating his readiness for the NHL stage.
The signing of James Hagens represents a significant milestone for the Boston Bruins and their fans, as they welcome a talented young player with immense potential to their roster. With his entry-level contract in place, Hagens is poised to make a name for himself in the NHL and contribute to the team's success in the seasons ahead. As the future unfolds on Causeway Street, all eyes will be on Hagens as he embarks on this exciting new chapter in his hockey career.