What Happened
The Boston Bruins have placed forward James Hagens on injured reserve following a back injury sustained on Thursday night. The team confirmed the move on November 7, backdating the placement to November 5. This decision halts Hagens' strong rookie campaign, during which he recorded six goals and six assists in 17 games. To fill the vacancy, the Bruins recalled forward Michael Eyssimont from their AHL affiliate in Providence, keeping the roster at the 23-player maximum.
Key Details
- James Hagens is out for at least one week with no confirmed return date.
- Hagens, the 2025 seventh overall pick, is playing wing despite being a natural center.
- Michael Eyssimont leads the AHL in goals with 13 in eight games.
- Eyssimont previously played 56 games for Boston in the 2025-26 season.
- The roster remains at the 23-player cap following the transaction.
What It Means
Hagens' injury disrupts the Bruins' development plan for their top prospect, who had adapted well to a wing role. Eyssimont's recall offers Boston a flexible option; he could assume Hagens' offensive role or revert to his traditional fourth-line energy player position, leveraging his current scoring surge in the minors.
What's Next
The Bruins will monitor Hagens' recovery over the coming week. Eyssimont is expected to join the lineup immediately, with his specific role and line assignment to be determined by coaching staff.