James Hagens continues to shine despite quieter season at Boston College

James Hagens was the name to watch as one approached the 2025 NHL Draft . Everybody believed he was going to be the first pick. Having his whole career centered on Long Island, New York, the player did brilliantly at any and all levels. In the 2023-24 season, he amassed 102 points in 58 contests while also representing the USA Hockey National Team Development Program . That shall keep him among the nine who have collectively surpassed the 100 points plateau during a program season.

James Hagens played with Ryan Leonard and Gabriel Perreault at Boston College
After that phenomenal season, James Hagens committed to Boston College for the 2024-25 season. He played on a line with two of the top NHL prospects : Capitals' Ryan Leonard and Rangers' Gabriel Perreault. His fans were waiting to see him dominate again.


He did not score as much as everyone wanted him to, but he still had 37 points in 37 games. That's one per game, which is still good. He also helped Team USA win gold at the World Juniors with five goals and four assists.




James Hagens struggled at college. He was shorter than many of the older heavier players. Because of his longer height, it was harder for him to get to the net. Most of his shots were from far away, and his goal numbers dropped:


2022-23 (NTDP): 26 goals in 43 games (27.5%)

2023-24 (NTDP): 39 goals on 58 games (18.5%)

2024-25 (Boston College): 11 goals in 37 games (7.9%)

James Hagens’ playmaking and skating continue to show elite NHL potential
With fewer targets to work with, James Hagens continued to look like an NHL star in the making. He is an extremely talented skater. He is quick, able, and able to make such sharp cuts that other offensive players benefit from them.


For instance, he can drive to the top of the slot during the power play and pivot off a smart pass to a teammate who's open. He also has good puck control, and it's hard to get him on one. If there isn't a passing lane, he can shoot himself.


He is worried about his size, but he plays hard and can defend himself. He compares several times to the New Jersey Devils' Jack Hughes. Like Hughes, James Hagens can be a great offense if he gets bigger and plays on a first line in the first few years of his NHL career.


James Hagens didn't score as many goals this year, but he played great nonetheless. He has been one of the best up-and-coming hockey players for years. With more time to hone his craft, he still seems like a top pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.


Also Read: James Hagens Leads Powerful Trio To Golden Season With Smart Plays