Boston college standout James Hagens isn’t ruling out a return to the NCAA, but his decision will come only after draft night reveals where he’s headed.
James Hagens may be weeks away from hearing his name called at the NHL Draft, but one thing remains clear, he’s not locking in his next move until he knows where he’s going.
The 17-year-old forward out of Boston College is projected to go inside the top five, and with the New York Islanders owning the first overall pick, all eyes are on the Long Island native.
It’s a potential homecoming story, but Hagens isn’t rushing into anything just yet.
Just have to see what happens. There’s no decision made yet,
he said on a Tuesday morning Zoom call.
That’s a discussion that me and my family and the team would have to have after the draft.
James Hagens Can Keep Up
After a strong freshman season at Chestnut Hill, where he produced 11 goals and 26 assists in 37 games, Hagens showed he could handle the speed and structure of Hockey East.
At 5-foot-11 and 177 pounds, he’s not the most physically dominant center, but his feel for the game, creativity with the puck, and playmaking instincts have him sitting third overall on Elite Prospects’ board, behind only Michael Schaefer and Michael Misa.
What’s unknown is whether the NHL team that drafts him will want him in the system immediately or prefer that he log another season of college development.
Either way, Hagens is waiting for that draft moment before making any decisions about staying or going.
And while Boston may not be in a position to land him at No. 7, he made it clear he’s grown fond of the city.
I love Boston, being at Boston College, we’re right in the middle of Boston there. So it’s a beautiful city. Only great things to say about it. I love it there.
Hagens said.
If the Islanders do take him at No. 1, it would bring things full circle for the hometown kid.
If it’s San Jose, Chicago, Utah, or Nashville—who round out the top five—his future could look very different. But wherever he ends up, Hagens’ next step will be a calculated one, not a rushed one. He’s earned that right.
Bruins after dark 
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