Bruins Sign James Hagens To AHL Amateur Tryout Agreement originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Boston Bruins have finally made a decision on top prospect James Hagens.
Advertisement
Boston selected Hagens seventh overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, and he spent the past season at Boston College. After his season came to an end, reports came out that Hagens would sign with the Bruins, but nothing was agreed to.
However, late Monday night, the Bruins announced the team signed Hagens to an AHL amateur tryout agreement.
“We’re very excited to have James join the Bruins organization and take this next step,” said general manager Don Sweeney in a statement. “James is an important part of our future, and this is a great opportunity for him to get immediate experience at the professional level in Providence and continue his development, while keeping all options open.”
Advertisement
Hagens will report to Providence for their team practice on Tuesday morning. By agreeing to the ATO, Hagens has the option to go to AHL and prove he’s ready.
If Hagens shows enough in the AHL, Boston could sign him to his entry-level deal and allow him to play in the NHL, and potentially the playoffs this season. If Hagens does sign later on, it would burn the first year of his entry-level deal.
Hagens recorded 23 goals and 24 assists for 47 points in 34 games at Boston College this season.
More NHL: Marco Sturm Opens Up On Bruins Potentially Adding James Hagens