
Game played on 11/29/2024.
James Hagens (C, L, 5’11”, 177, Boston College, 11/03/2006, Boston College)
Grade: B+
Comments: Hagens is a high-end forward getting plenty of 2025 NHL Draft attention. The left-shot forward, born in late ’06, is not overly big or strong at this point, although he excels with his high hockey IQ, skating, puck skills, and shot release. What was interesting is he started as the top-line center for Boston College and then seemed to be relegated to the 2nd line and also the 2nd power play unit, until he scored two goals in the game, and then found himself on the top line and unit again. He scored the first two BC goals as he smartly went to the right spots in the offensive zone to receive the puck and make plays. After a Dartmouth turnover below the goal line, Hagens received the #24 Perreault pass and quickly touched it to #4 Stiga in the slot area then back peddled to open ice while opening up and facing the play, to then receive the puck back on the other side of the slot scoring with a quick wrist shot. The second goal was seeing another interception by #24 Perreault in the offensive zone along the wall, Hagens quickly found the open ice across the top of the circle received the pass and then wristing shot 5-hole for the goal. Hagens succeeds because he has exceptional puck skills in which he always has his head up to scan the ice in possession as well as handling the puck almost like a yo-yo. He shows Jack Hughes and Patrick Kane-like characteristics as he is agile, quick, shifty on his skates, and is a playmaker with his vision and soft hands. He attacks on offense with different angles and can change speed, acceleration, and direction which makes him elusive. He also possesses a deceptive and quick-shot release. While Hagens can finish, he is more the playmaker type with his passing and vision. Like many young prospects, he will benefit from added muscle and strength. Defensively, he plays an adequate game with positioning and awareness. He should hear his name announced early at the NHL Entry Draft.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images