Join On Tap Sports Net as we look at the top prospects who are the best fit for the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2025 NHL Draft.

The 2025 NHL Draft is six weeks away, expected to take place on June 25. The NHL Draft Combine will take place from June 1-5, when Chicago Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson will get a close look at the top prospects on his draft board. Last week, we looked at Michael Misa, the current top forward of the draft. This week, we look at James Hagens, another center expected to be drafted high. But for someone who was once ranked the number one pick in this year’s draft, should the Blackhawks take him at third overall?

Draft Profile: James Hagens

Before the 2024-25 NHL season, James Hagens was ranked number one in this year’s draft class. Hagens has fallen to around four. He’s a fast and skilled center, but not every scout agrees that Hagens will be an NHL center. 

The Blackhawks need to hit on a top-six center. Connor Bedard will be the number one center, for now. Bedard gets pushed off the puck too easily, and there is an argument to be made that he will eventually move to the wing. Frank Nazar showed that he could be an NHL center last season. But will he be more effective on the wing? 

Hagens is known for his speed, puck handling, and overall skill. However, at 5’11” and 176 lbs, Hagens’ frame isn’t exactly the size that the Blackhawks need.

Hagens finished his freshman year at Boston University and scored 11 goals and 37 points in 37 games. He’s a highly talented forward, but some scouts project Hagens in a supporting role on the second line. The question surrounding his game is whether he’ll be a center in the NHL. 

There are areas of his game that Hagens will need to round out. Another year in the NCAA will be to his benefit. If the Blackhawks draft Hagens, I don’t think we will see him until 2026. Scouts noticed Hagens’ lack of power and how easily he gets pushed off the puck to be an issue. The Blackhawks don’t need two top centers losing possession of the puck so easily. Additionally, scouts don’t think Hagens currently has the play-driving ability to be a true NHL center. 

If the Blackhawks draft Hagens, at best, he’s a fast, skilled number two center. That’s not bad, but it’s far from a sure thing. There are other players on the draft board suited for center, namely Anton Frondell. But will Kyle Davidson be drafting for positional need, or best player available? 

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What’s On Tap Next?

We’ll continue our dive into the draft’s top prospects. I’ll also rank the prospects we discuss. So far, Misa is ahead of Hagens. Next week, we’ll look at another prospect the Blackhawks might take. 

Ranks:

Michael Misa
James Hagens

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