Is James Hagens Doing Enough ? | 2025 NHL Draft
Like last season, TSLH Prospects will publish a weekly report on the offensive performances of prospects eligible for the 2025 NHL Draft. Each week, we will tour the globe to identify players performing in their respective leagues, regardless of the level. This week, we will look at the american prospects, specially James Hagens.
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James Hagens and the Race for First Overall in the 2025 NHL Draft
Let’s be honest: the first overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft was James Hagens’ spot to lose. The young American center was unanimously identified as the face of this year’s cohort, and few dared to question that back in September. However, since the season began, the brilliance of players like Matthew Schaefer and Michael Misa, among others, has sparked debate about who will be selected first overall.
James Hagens has posted 25 points in 23 games with Boston College in the NCAA, playing alongside Gabe Perreault and Ryan Leonard (or Teddy Stiga) most of the time. It’s below expectations. While the line is threatening game after game, the finishing is not as sharp as it was when Will Smith centered this line of elite prospects. Despite being underwhelming, Hagens’ season remains noteworthy. His talent is undeniable. However, his closest competitors for the top spot in the 2025 nhl draft are making stronger cases. Time will tell, as we approach spring, if the teammate of Canadiens prospect Jacob Fowler regains momentum.
In the NCAA, Cullen Potter has tallied 13 points in 22 games with Arizona, while Shane Vansaghi has 12 points in 26 games for Michigan State. Logan Hensler, a defenseman, is struggling within a program that has been underwhelming for several seasons (9 points in 21 games). Lastly, William Horcoff transitioned from the USNTDP to the NCAA at the University of Michigan and is performing well, with 5 points in 8 games. His progress will be closely monitored.
Adam Benak, Ethan Wyttenbach, and Ryker Lee Dominating the USHL
Adam Benak, a Czech player, has been drawing attention for several seasons both domestically and internationally. Unfortunately, his size prevents him from being considered among the elite prospects of the 2025 NHL Draft. At just 5’7″, his stature raises doubts about his NHL projection, especially since his speed isn’t a standout strength, and he plays a perimeter style. Nonetheless, his transition to the USHL has been smooth, with 35 points in 37 games for Youngstown.
Ryker Lee is among the top scorers in the USHL this season. The forward has been consistent, averaging just over a point per game, with 35 points in 30 games. Lee’s offensive talent is unquestionable, unlike his defensive abilities, but there has been visible improvement in his effort since the holidays, which should reassure scouts.
Ethan Wyttenbach remains an unfamiliar name to many. This forward from the Sioux Falls Stampede has accumulated 38 points in 34 games, making him the leading scorer among first-year draft-eligible players in the NHL. A rookie in the American junior circuit, Wyttenbach also has a smaller frame at 5’10” and 170 lbs.
Nicolas Sykora has been shining since his transfer to Sioux City, recording 29 points in 38 games, including 22 in 21 games with his new team. Other notable seasons include Benjamin Kevan (28 points in 29 games), who also played four games with the USNTDP, and towering 6’5″ forward Vaclav Nestrasil (27 points in 38 games), who has emerged as a standout over the past 20 games.
William Moore Still Leading the USNTDP
From the beginning of the season, it’s been clear that this year’s USNTDP cohort lacks elite talent. No prospect is averaging more than a point per game, and it’s expected that teams may overlook USNTDP players during the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft. Nevertheless, William Moore continues to lead the team in scoring with 31 points in 38 games, followed by Cole McKinney with 29 points in 32 games.
Injuries to LJ Mooney and Carter Amico have not helped the team’s performance, but even with them in the lineup, the overall results have been underwhelming. Cullen Potter would undoubtedly be a major asset to the team, though his presence likely wouldn’t change much. The group lacks talent and consists of many undersized players with similar profiles.
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