When the Boston Bruins’ 2024-25 campaign ended with an overtime loss to the New Jersey Devils last April, it wasn't just the end of a season-it was the end of an era. The Bruins didn’t just miss the playoffs; they hit rock bottom in the Atlantic Division, finishing tied with the Flyers for the worst record in the Eastern Conference. For a franchise with such a storied tradition, that kind of fall stings-and it forced GM Don Sweeney to make some tough, franchise-altering decisions.
The Bruins responded with a full-scale reset at the trade deadline. Sweeney dealt captain Brad Marchand to the Panthers, sent steady blueliner Brandon Carlo to Toronto, and shipped veteran forward Charlie Coyle to Colorado. It was a fire sale, no doubt-but one that’s already showing signs of paying off.
And while their position in the NHL Draft Lottery didn’t offer much hope-the Bruins landed right where they were expected to, at No. 7-draft night brought an unexpected gift. James Hagens, once projected as the top overall pick, slid to seventh.
Sweeney didn’t hesitate. He grabbed the Boston College forward, a high-upside, high-IQ player who’s already proving he belonged much higher on that draft board.
Now in his sophomore season at BC, Hagens isn’t just developing-he’s thriving. And on Monday night at TD Garden, he gave Bruins fans even more reason to be excited about the future. Hagens led the Eagles to a dominant 5-1 win over Harvard in the semifinals of the 73rd annual Beanpot Tournament, notching two goals and an assist in a performance that showcased his elite vision and scoring touch.
After the game, Hagens talked about why he chose Boston College, leaving his home state of New York to play for one of the most tradition-rich programs in college hockey.
“You know, it’s one of the biggest reasons why I wanted to go to school here, just the rich history of the Beanpot, just being able to step on that ice and be part of it,” he said. “It’s really special. Just grateful to be here and be in it.”
That’s the kind of mindset that resonates in Boston-a city that lives and breathes its hockey history. The Beanpot isn’t just a tournament; it’s a proving ground. And Hagens is embracing the moment.
With Monday’s win, BC earns a shot at its first Beanpot title in a decade. To get there, they’ll have to go through Boston University, who edged out Northeastern in a shootout to punch their ticket to the final. It’s a classic rivalry matchup on tap for next Monday night, and Hagens is just 60 minutes away from adding his name to the long list of Beanpot legends.
For Bruins fans, this is more than just a college tournament. It’s a glimpse of what’s coming. And if Hagens keeps playing like this, Boston’s rebuild might not take nearly as long as some feared.