James Hagens didn't just show up for his NHL debut; he made his presence felt. With a group of 13 friends and family cheering him on in Columbus, the Boston Bruins' top prospect recorded an assist in a tight 3-2 victory over the Blue Jackets on Sunday.

With the Bruins' playoff spot already secured, head coach Marco Sturm inserted the young forward into the lineup, placing him on a line with fellow prospects Marat Khusutdinov and Fraser Minten. Hagens logged a solid 13:08 of ice time over 19 shifts, finishing the night a plus-1.

His first NHL point was a classic hard-working assist. In the late second period, Hagens aggressively forechecked, pinning defenseman Denton Mateychuk along the boards in the corner. He then dished the puck to Sean Kuraly, who quickly set up Henri Jokiharju for a goal that gave Boston a 2-1 lead.

Beyond the score sheet, Hagens' game showed the typical rookie mix of promise and learning moments. He registered one shot on goal and blocked two from Columbus, but also took an early hooking penalty and was charged with two giveaways. It was a complete, honest effort that gives Bruins fans a exciting glimpse of the future.

For a player stepping onto hockey's biggest stage for the first time, contributing to a win is the perfect start. It's the kind of debut that builds confidence and hints at more impactful performances to come as his career unfolds.