Boston College's James Hagens practices on first-line

Hagens played between Gabe Perreault and Ryan Leonard

Projected first overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft and Boston College freshman James Hagens practiced on the team's first line, it was reported Wednesday. 

Hagens, a product of Hauppauge, N.Y., slotted in on the first line between New York Rangers prospect Gabe Perreault and Washington Capitals prospect Ryan Leonard.

Perreault and Leonard formed two-thirds of one of the best NCAA lines last season alongside San Jose Sharks prospect Will Smith. Although there were some who wondered if more than one of them would turn pro, Smith was the only one who did. 

A highly regarded player, Hagens suited up for the U.S. NTDP U18 Team last season where he collected 39 goals and 63 assists for 102 points in 58 regular season games. 

With Hagens expected to take Smith's spot, he will be in a prime position to hit the ground running once the puck drops on the season. While he will have some talented players vying for the first overall selection in 2025, if Hagens can produce like many expect, it is hard to see him not hearing his name called first next June. 

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