When the Boston Bruins released their roster for Rookie Camp and Prospects Showcase this weekend in Western New York against the Buffalo Sabres, it wasn't a surprise that James Hagens, Boston's top prospect, was on the roster.
He missed the Black and Gold Development Camp early in the summer after a busy spring that saw him make his NHL debut after finishing his sophomore year at Boston College. He also played for Team USA in the IIHF World Championship after the Bruins were bounced in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs by the Sabres.
Some prospects might not have been happy taking part in this weekend's practices and games, but not the seventh overall pick of the 2025 Entry Draft.
“I am excited to be able to play a game again. You work so hard in the offseason and to be able to be back, be on the ice – it feels great,” Hagens said, per Belle Fraser of BostonBruins.com. “It’s a great opportunity for all of us. We’re out here today; we had a great practice. Roll over into tomorrow and get ready for Sunday.”
James Hagens not guaranteed to make Bruins Opening Night roster
Despite not making his NHL debut until late in the season and playing in the first three games against Buffalo, Hagens is not guaranteed to make the Opening Night roster for the Black and Gold. I know, that's hard to believe, but we've been down this road before with Bruins and prospects earning a roster spot. It's easier said than done.
Boston has an influx of bottom-six forwards. That doesn't mean that Hagens can't crack Marco Sturm's top six coming out of camp, but it might take an injury for that to happen, and given the Black and Gold's depth, that will not be a good thing.
Hagens will more than likely be battling veteran Alex Steeves, Mikey Eyssimont, and others for a roster spot. Right now, Matthew Poitras is not signed, but he was on the ice at Warrior Ice Arena earlier this week for captains' practices. Maybe that's a sign of things to come in terms of a deal. If he does sign, that'll be another number looking for a roster spot against the New York Rangers on Sept. 29 at TD Garden.
Hagens gets an early opportunity to make an impression on the Bruins staff before training camp officially begins next week. This is going to be a short camp, so anything that he can do beforehand gives him an edge next week.
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