
James Hagens was hopeful to meet Adam Sandler one day after the movie star called his name as the Boston Bruins’ No. 7 pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft.
And that day came on Monday.
Hagens went to the “Happy Gilmore 2″ premiere with his brother, Michael, and was able to connect with Sandler briefly.
“Thank you for drafting me,” the forward told Sandler.
The Bruins used Sandler as his “Happy Gilmore” character — clad in an eight-spoked B jersey — to announce Hagens as their draft picks. The Boston College product called it “one of the coolest” moments he’s had because “Happy Gilmore” is his favorite movie.
“Seeing (Sandler) up on the screen, you’re hoping he says your name and he says Boston College,” Hagens said. “It’s just something that doesn’t feel real. He’s a funny guy."
Hagens, who spent last season at BC, hasn’t decided whether to return to the Eagles or turn pro.
“I wanna play in the NHL as soon as possible,”Hagens said. “That’s a conversation with the team, whether I’m doing that now or once the season’s once the college season’s over, that’s a conversation we have to have.”