NHL Draft Diaries: Equipment Edition - James Hagens

James Hagens, a Long Island, NY native, is already a household name in hockey circles, and for good reason. At just 18 years old, he is widely regarded as the top prospect for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, with several experts projecting him to go first overall. This young phenom is not just another promising player—he’s a potential franchise cornerstone. As an elite forward with “number 1 center” potential, Hagens has the rare blend of skill, vision, and offensive prowess to immediately elevate any NHL team struggling to find the back of the net.

 

Currently a freshman at Boston College, Hagens is already proving why he is so highly touted. After dominating during his two seasons at the National Team Development Program (NTDP), he has seamlessly transitioned to NCAA Division I hockey. Through just nine games with the Eagles, he has tallied a solid 11 points, a testament to his ability to handle the faster, more physical collegiate game. His strong start at Boston College underscores his readiness to take on greater challenges, and NHL scouts are taking notice.

While Hagens’ on-ice performance is enough to generate buzz, his choice of hockey equipment has also drawn attention. Boston College’s partnership with Warrior means that Hagens currently uses Warrior gloves, helmets, and pants, aligning with the team’s requirements. However, when it comes to his skates and sticks, he has opted for Bauer, a brand that has become synonymous with elite performance.

 

Hagens is skating in Bauer’s Vapor HyperLite 2 model, a high-performance skate favored by many top players for its speed-enhancing design and comfort. But what really stands out is his choice of stick. Initially, there was speculation that he would use Bauer’s new Twitch model stick, and he did test it during early practices and games. However, Hagens soon made a surprising switch to the gold Proto R model, a premium stick designed for precision and durability. This change has sparked interest among equipment enthusiasts and could signal his personal preference for Bauer’s cutting-edge technology.

As Hagens prepares to transition to the NHL, one intriguing subplot is which equipment brand will secure his endorsement. With his current preference for Bauer skates and sticks, the company seems well-positioned to lock him into an official partnership when he makes the leap to professional hockey. Bauer’s history of aligning with top-tier talent makes this a likely scenario, especially given Hagens’ high-profile status.

 

However, much like his draft year, the timeline for his NHL debut remains uncertain. Whether he opts to spend another year at Boston College or makes an immediate jump to the pros, one thing is clear: James Hagens is a game-changer. NHL teams and equipment brands alike are already vying for his talents, ensuring his impact will be felt both on the ice and in the world of hockey gear.

 

Hagens’ journey is just beginning, and with every stride he takes in his Bauer skates and every shot he fires with the gold Proto R, the hockey world watches with bated breath. His future is bright, and his path to NHL superstardom seems all but inevitable.

Photo Credit: Richard T. Gagnon