James Hagens (C, L, 5’11”, 177, Boston College, 11/03/2006, Boston College)
James Hagens is an elite offensive talent and one of the most dynamic prospects for the 2025 NHL Draft. With high-end hockey IQ, exceptional puck skills, and creative playmaking, he consistently generates scoring chances and elevates the play of his teammates. Hagens’ ability to manipulate defenders with shifty skating, deceptive stickhandling, and quick decision-making makes him an offensive catalyst. Despite his smaller frame and occasional inconsistencies in effort without the puck, his ceiling as a game-breaking forward is undeniable. With added strength and consistency, he projects as a top-three pick in the upcoming draft and a future first-line NHL forward. Strengths Hockey IQ and Vision: Exceptional ability to read and anticipate plays, finding soft spots in defensive coverage for Grade “A” scoring opportunities. Creates offensive opportunities with elite passing accuracy and creativity, consistently finding teammates in dangerous areas. Processes the game at an elite pace, particularly in tight spaces and high-pressure situations. Puck Skills: Elite puck-handling ability; maintains control under pressure and can execute complex dekes at full speed without needing to look down to maintain control. Can catch and control hard passes seamlessly, allowing him to make plays quickly and efficiently. Displays excellent touch on passes, capable of threading seams that others might miss. Skating: Highly agile with elite edgework, allowing him to change direction and speed effortlessly. Accelerates quickly and uses his shifty skating to attack defenders from different angles. Capable of consistently changing his pace, which puts pressure on opponents trying to match speeds and forces his opponents to make mental mistakes. Offensive Versatility: Dangerous scorer with a quick and deceptive release, especially effective in tight spaces. Can generate Grade “A” scoring opportunities for himself or his linemates off the rush, on the cycle, and in broken plays. Thrives as a dual-threat forward who can score or set up plays with equal effectiveness. Work Ethic and Defensive Awareness: Positively developing two-way game; Hagens has demonstrated effective backchecking and positioning in the defensive zone, but will need consistency to be a center in the NHL. Effective forechecker who uses anticipation and hockey sense to disrupt opponents’ breakouts. Areas for Improvement Consistency Without the Puck: Has shown stretches of being too passive after turnovers, not always stopping on the puck or fighting to regain possession. Needs to maintain a consistent intensity level shift to shift, especially in the defensive zone. Physicality and Strength: At 5’11” and 177 lbs, Hagens needs to add muscle to better handle physical battles along the boards and in net-front situations. Increased strength will also enhance his explosiveness and ability to protect the puck under duress. Finishing Ability: While his playmaking is elite, his finishing can be inconsistent at times. Could benefit from refining his shot selection and improving his ability to capitalize on high-danger chances. Top-Line Presence: Occasionally gets quiet for stretches in games, needing to assert himself more consistently as a dominant force. Projection James Hagens is a top prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft with the potential to be a first-line center at the NHL level. His elite hockey sense, dynamic offensive tools, and ability to elevate teammates make him a rare talent. With added strength and improved consistency, he projects as a game-breaking forward capable of thriving in all situations at the professional level. Draft Outlook: Top-3 pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. Player Comparison: Jack Hughes – A highly skilled, creative, and elusive forward who can dictate the pace of play and thrive in high-pressure situations.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images
