Michael Hagens is using NY Islanders development camp to forge his own path

The New York Islanders failed to trade up during the 2025 NHL Draft to select Hauppauge's own James Hagens, but there's another Hagens attending development camp this season.

Michael Hagens grew up competing alongside his younger brother, James, whose selection by the Boston Bruins with the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft only added another chapter to a lifelong rivalry that has helped shape both players.

Last season, the brothers had the opportunity to share the ice at Boston College, where Michael recorded five assists in 33 games while continuing to develop his own identity as a player.

"Ever since we were young, we've constantly been pushing each other," Hagens said via NewYorkIslanders.com. "It's been impactful to grow up with him and have the chance to play together at different levels."

Now attending his hometown team's development camp, Michael is focused on carving out his own path while embracing the opportunity to showcase his game to Islanders fans.

"This week, I want to show Islander fans who I am and just try to get better each day," he said.

Although Hagens is now a defenseman, his hockey roots were spent at forward, and that experience continues to influence the way he approaches the game. "It's definitely helped me see both sides of the puck," Hagens said. "Being able to see plays from up there and apply that on defense has been helpful. It was an experience most don't get, so I'm grateful for it."

The long term dream for Islanders fans may be to see James Hagens one day play for his hometown favorite team, but right now, it's his brother living a dream in real time.

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