Bruins draft pick explains returning to BC for sophomore season

James Hagens is in no rush to turn pro after being selected in the first round of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft by the Boston Bruins.

The forward will return to Boston College in the fall for his sophomore season, he confirmed to WEEI’s Scott McLaughlin on Wednesday at TD Garden.

“It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon,” Hagens said. “There’s no reason to rush anything. … There’s a different timeline for everyone.”

Hagens said the decision came after he talked a lot with his family and the Bruins.

During a recent conversation with the Boston Herald’s Steve Conroy, Hagens revealed the decision was up to him, but was told if he decided to turn pro, that didn’t guarantee a roster spot.

“(They said), ‘if you come here, you have to make the team.’ That’s how it is. Nothing’s given to you. Everything’s earned,” Hagens told Conroy.

When Hagens was drafted, there were questions about whether he’d try to fight for a spot on Boston’s roster or continue his collegiate career. And while the 18-year-old admitted he wanted to play in the NHL as soon as possible, he knew it wasn’t a guarantee he’d wear a Bruins sweater to begin the 2025-26 season.

Bruins general manager Don Sweeney liked the Hagens’ enthusiasm, but noted there was no reason to rush Hagens’ development.

“There will be no hurry to try and fast-track James. I’d say about every player. If somewhere between now and then that changes and we feel differently about it, as we’re evaluating, we may make that decision,” Sweeney said in June. “I know he’d like to play right away. I’m sure every guy that was drafted tonight thinks they might be able to play in the National Hockey League, but we’ll allow that to take a more natural course and make the right decision.”

Hagens helped the Eagles to the Hockey East regular season title with 11 goals and 26 assists last season. Despite being a point-per-game player, continuing to develop his offensive game will only benefit him for his NHL future.

Bruins draft pick explains returning to BC for sophomore season

Tags: