Story perspectives

Bruins Sign Top Draft Pick Hagens for Playoff Push

4/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Boston Bruins signed 19-year-old forward James Hagens to a three-year entry-level contract with a cap hit of $975,000.
Hagens, the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, is set to join the Bruins for their final three regular-season games and potential playoff run.
He led Hockey East with 47 points this season while playing at Boston College and scored one goal and three assists in six games with the Providence Bruins.
Hagens could make his NHL debut as soon as Saturday against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

History

Historical Context

The NHL's new entry-level contract rules, implemented in 2013 following a lockout that ended in January, aimed to enhance team competitiveness by allowing franchises to invest in young talent. The salary cap rose to $70.2 million, reflecting a commitment to developing collegiate players like James Hagens, the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, who scored 47 points at Boston College.

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Story summary

The Boston Bruins signed 19-year-old forward James Hagens to a three-year entry-level contract with a cap hit of $975,000.
Hagens, the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, is set to join the Bruins for their final three regular-season games and potential playoff run.
He led Hockey East with 47 points this season while playing at Boston College and scored one goal and three assists in six games with the Providence Bruins.
Hagens could make his NHL debut as soon as Saturday against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

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