The way teams develop prospects is crucial when it comes to how the player pans out in professional hockey.

When it comes to the Bruins’ top prospect , James Hagens, Boston wants to take its time with him.

The front office spoke to Hagens after the 2025 development camp and allowed for the decision to be up to the 18-year-old. They warned him that if he wanted to make the quick jump to professional hockey, he would have to fight for a spot on the NHL roster.

After the conversation, Hagens decided it would be better to go into his sophomore season with Boston College.

“It was a great talk, a great conversation. It was up to me. And (they said), ‘if you come here, you have to make the team.’ That’s how it is. Nothing’s given to you. Everything’s earned,” Hagens told Boston Herald’s

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