When the puck drops at the 2025 NHL Draft, all eyes will be on the usual suspects: high-scoring forwards, dominant defensemen, and maybe a breakout goalie. But few players bring together skating, vision, and intelligence quite like James Hagens—a freshman standout at Boston College who’s emerging as one of the most complete centers in this year’s class.
A product of the U.S. National Team Development Program and a former World Junior Championship standout, Hagens was already on the radar coming into the NCAA season. Now, he’s making his case to be a top-five pick.
Elite Hockey IQ, College-Tested
After dominating the USNTDP in 2023–24 with 102 points in 61 games, Hagens transitioned to Boston College for the 2024–25 season—and wasted no time proving he belonged.
In 37 games with the Eagles, Hagens posted 11 goals, 26 assists, and a +21 rating, becoming one of the most trusted and productive freshmen in all of college hockey.
A Scouting Breakdown: What Makes Him Special
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Skating: Hagens has a smooth, agile stride with deceptive acceleration. He’s not a burner, but his edges and shiftiness allow him to create space and escape pressure.
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Vision & Passing: One of the top playmakers in the draft class. Hagens excels at anticipating passing lanes, finding teammates in tight windows, and extending plays with poise.
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Scoring Touch: Though better known as a passer, he’s not afraid to shoot—and when he does, he picks corners. His release is quick and accurate, especially off the rush.
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Defensive Responsibility: A rare trait for a freshman center—Hagens regularly draws tough defensive assignments. He backchecks hard, blocks shots, and wins puck battles.
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Composure: Perhaps most impressively, Hagens plays like a veteran. He rarely forces plays, controls pace, and always seems to be in control—even under pressure.
NHL Comparables
Hagens’ all-around game invites comparisons to several NHL stars:
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Brayden Point – Undersized but cerebral, Point’s two-way game and high motor mirror what Hagens brings nightly.
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Nick Suzuki – Both players thrive as modern, creative play-drivers who can be leaned on in all situations.
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Trevor Zegras – Hagens has that same flair for the dramatic and the ability to make the impossible look routine.
A Future Franchise Center
Hagens projects as a true top-line NHL center with leadership qualities, elite hockey sense, and the ability to tilt the ice in his team’s favor. He’s the kind of player you build a roster around—someone who makes everyone around him better.
Bottom Line:
The hype is real. Hagens has met every challenge, and as the 2025 Draft approaches, he’s positioned himself as one of the most complete players available. Keep an eye on him—he’s not just the future. He’s arriving now.
Check out our Scouting Report on 2025 NHL Draft Prospect: Anton Frondell
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