How James Hagens went from Boston College to Bruins' playoff run

The Boston Bruins are counting on James Hagens.

This is what they hoped for when they drafted him, of course, but it's certainly a quick step-up from Boston College to the NHL playoffs.

The Bruins open their playoffs on Sunday night in Buffalo, and Hagens will be out there.

He played just two regular season games, tallying an assist and not yet scoring a goal.

It sure would be a great time for Hagens to get one.

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How did James Hagens come from BC to the Bruins?

This all has to do with the way the NHL sets up its contracts after the draft.

Hagens was the No. 7 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, but then he stayed with Boston College to play this season..

Once their postseason run was over, he was eligible to sign his NHL contract, and here he is.

Hagens is still just 19. He's one of five Bruins who will be making their playoff debut in Buffalo.

The kid has as much talent as anyone on the ice. It'll all be about figuring out how he can use it to make an immediate impact.

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