When the Boston Bruins broke training camp at the end of September, it wasn't surprising to see youngster James Hagens break camp on the roster. But how long the 19-year-old would last was still in question. Could he handle the grind of what is now an 84-game regular season?
The 84-game regular season is new for everybody, but just 12 games into the 2026-27 season, the former Boston College standout is fitting in just fine. In fact, he's doing things that are not only impressing his head coach but also his captain, David Pastrnak.
Bruins captain David Pastrnak impressed with young forward James Hagens
If we're being honest, how can you not be impressed with Hagens' play so far this season? His toughness and ability to do whatever it takes have been on display just in the last week. IN last Tuesday's 3-2 overtime loss to the Dallas Stars, the game was tied 1-1 in the second period; he went to the front of the net and tipped home the go-ahead goal.
On Saturday night in a 6-4 win over the San Jose Sharks at home, the game was tied 3-3 in the third period, and 40 seconds after Pastrnak tied the game, Hagens put the Black and Gold back on top when he again went to the front of the net and poked home a loose puck. His ability to get to the front of the net and score goals is impressing Pastrnak.
“Impressive,” Pastrnak said. “He’s got the touch. He’s been there and been around it the whole time, and he’s been productive. It’s fun to watch him every day and every game, seeing him get more comfortable. He’s a great player and has scored some big goals. ... He’s very smart around the net.”
The youth injection into the Bruins lineup this season is real. Along with Hagens, who was the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, Matthew Poitras is carving out a role on the fourth line, while Frederic Brunet and Mason Lohrei are forming a nice third pairing on defense. Let's not forget the impact Michael DiPietro is making backing up Jeremy Swayman, already picking up his first career NHL win and shutout in two separate games.
Hagens falling to the Black and Gold in the 2025 Draft was finally some draft luck for general manager Don Sweeney. Playing on the third line with Casey Mittlestadt and Elias Lindholm, Hagens is opening eyes with his teammates and certainly with Pastrnak. In 12 games, he has four goals and five assists while playing just under 13 minutes. Just what the Bruins needed.
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