Bruins place James Hagens on IR after taking cross-check to lower back

The injury brought the rookie’s stellar season to a halt.

By Kaley Brown · Boston Magazine

Published: Sunday, 8 November 2026 at 1:58 AM

Key Things to Know

The Boston Bruins placed rookie forward James Hagens on injured reserve with a lower-back injury.
Hagens was injured after taking a cross-check from Penguins defenseman Sam Girard on Thursday.
Head coach Marco Sturm confirmed that Hagens is expected to miss a few weeks.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Boston Bruins placed rookie forward James Hagens on injured reserve on Saturday following an injury sustained against the Pittsburgh Penguins. The 20-year-old left Thursday's game during the third period after receiving a cross-check to the lower back from Penguins defenseman Sam Girard. In a corresponding move, the Bruins recalled Mikey Eyssimont from Providence.

Head coach Marco Sturm stated that Hagens is expected to miss a few weeks to heal from the injury. Hagens has contributed six goals and 12 points during Boston's 12-4-1 start to the season, tying him for second in goals on the team.

Read the full article on Boston Magazine

Bruins place James Hagens on IR after taking cross-check to lower back

More Boston Bruins News

Never Miss a Sports Update