Hagens NHL Draft 2025: Bruins Secure the Perfect Fit in Rising Star Forward

Hagens NHL Draft 2025:

Hagens NHL Draft 2025: Bruins Land Their Future Star at No. 7

The Hagens NHL Draft 2025 moment became one to remember when the Boston Bruins selected James Hagens with the No. 7 overall pick. What made it even more memorable was the announcement — a surprise pre-recorded video from none other than Adam Sandler, dressed as his iconic character Happy Gilmore. For Hagens, a fan of the film and a lifelong hockey dreamer, it was the perfect start to a new chapter.

A Dream Realized in the Hagens NHL Draft 2025 Moment

James Hagens, a standout center from Boston College, watched his NHL dream come true at the 2025 NHL Draft held in Los Angeles. Once considered a potential top-three selection, Hagens saw his name called a bit later than expected. But for him, ending up with the Bruins was better than going first.

“Being selected by Boston is the best thing that could have happened,” Hagens shared. “It’s close to home, it’s where I wanted to be, and now I get to play for the Bruins — my dream team.”

Bruins Fill a Key Need in the Hagens NHL Draft 2025 Pick

The Bruins have been seeking a true No. 1 center since the retirement of legends Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci in 2023. With the Hagens NHL Draft 2025 pick, they may have finally found their answer. Bruins General Manager Don Sweeney explained the logic behind the decision.

“We were hoping James would still be there at No. 7,” said Sweeney. “He’s been a top performer at every level — from the National Team Development Program to Boston College. We believe in his ability to generate offense and lead the game from the center.”

Why Hagens Was the Right Fit

Despite a slight slide in the rankings leading up to the draft, Hagens’ resume speaks volumes. At 5-foot-11 and 190 pounds, he combines high hockey IQ with excellent puck control and leadership. During his freshman year at Boston College, he tallied 11 goals and 26 assists for 37 points in 37 games — proving he could hold his own in one of college hockey’s most competitive environments.

He also shined on the international stage, scoring five goals in seven games at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship to help Team USA clinch gold.

A Special Draft Night Announcement

Adding to the excitement of the Hagens NHL Draft 2025 event was Adam Sandler’s hilarious and heartwarming draft pick announcement. Sandler, wearing a Bruins jersey as Happy Gilmore, said:

“My name is Happy Gilmore. How are you? Proud to be part of the 2025 NHL Draft. The Boston Bruins select from Boston College, James Hagens. Way to go, homie!”

For Hagens, a longtime fan of both hockey and the movie, it was a surreal moment.

“I was watching and thought, ‘This is unreal,’” Hagens recalled. “Seeing Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore calling my name — I’ll never forget that.”

The Bruins’ Future with Hagens

The Hagens NHL Draft 2025 selection marks Boston’s highest pick since 2010, when they drafted Tyler Seguin at No. 2. With expectations high, fans hope Hagens can help return the team to Stanley Cup contention after missing the 2025 playoffs.

Sweeney is confident in Hagens’ potential.

“James is a playmaker. He’s excelled at every level, and we believe he can become a foundational piece for our future,” Sweeney said. “There’s no pressure to rush, but we’re excited to begin working with him.”

What’s Next for Hagens?

While many Bruins fans are eager to see Hagens in the NHL immediately, his path isn’t yet set. Asked whether he would return to Boston College next season, Hagens remained undecided.

“I want to play in the NHL — that’s the goal,” he said. “But we’ll see what happens. I need to talk with my family, coaches, and the Bruins. There’s no set plan yet.”

Regardless of where he plays next season, Hagens is focused on development. “I want to be stronger, faster, and more prepared for the NHL. I’m willing to put in the work,” he said.

Development Camp Up Next

Just days after being selected, Hagens will head to Boston for the Bruins’ annual development camp. There, he’ll skate with other prospects, including teammates from Boston College, in a familiar setting — Warrior Ice Arena.

“It’s exciting to be part of that group,” Hagens said. “I’m looking forward to getting started and learning from the organization.”

Ready to Prove the Doubters Wrong

Falling to No. 7 may have been disappointing to some, but Hagens is using it as motivation. “I’ll be back next season ready to prove everyone who passed on me wrong,” he said. “I wanted to go to a place that wanted me. And now I’m here — I’m a Boston Bruin.”

With a strong work ethic, natural skill, and undeniable passion for the game, Hagens seems poised to make an impact — whether it’s this season or the next.

The Bottom Line: Bruins Get Their Guy in Hagens NHL Draft 2025

The Hagens NHL Draft 2025 story may have started with a drop in draft rankings, but it ended with a perfect match. The Boston Bruins secured a top-tier center with local ties, high upside, and a drive to win.

For Hagens, this is more than a draft pick — it’s the start of a dream career with the team he’s always wanted to play for. And for Bruins fans, the future just got a whole lot brighter.

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