Bruins first-round draft pick appears to makes decision about BC future

It looks as if James Hagens has made a decision about his future at Boston College.

In a recent interview with NHL.com’s Mike G. Morreale, the Bruins’ first-round draft pick appeared to confirm his return to the Eagles for his sophomore season.

“I want to be able to win a Beanpot, be able to win a national championship,” Hagens said. “Everyone has their roles, but our team goal is winning. That’s what we want to do. We fell short last year, but it’s hopefully going to happen this year.”

Hagens was drafted seventh-overall by Boston in June. There were questions about whether he’d return to BC in the fall 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.”

Bruins general manager Don Sweeney liked the forward’s enthusiasm, but noted there was no reason to rush Hagens’ development.

“There will be no hurry to try and fast-track James. I’d say about every player. If somewhere between now and then that changes and we feel differently about it, as we’re evaluating, we may make that decision,” Sweeney said in June. “I know He’d like to play right away. I’m sure every guy that was drafted tonight thinks they might be able to play in the National Hockey League, but we’ll allow that to take a more natural course and make the right decision.”

Hagens helped the Eagles to the Hockey East regular season title with 11 goals and 26 assists last season.

The 18-year-old is one of several prospects BC has in its system, including William Moore and Dean Letourneau.