My updates to the 2026 Boston Bruins top-10 prospect pool is complete, the link to which is attached. What really stood out to me was the chemistry that has developed and will continue to develop among its potential top-6 forward group of prospects. Also, Boston boasts two high-end goaltending prospects near the top of its pool in Max Lundgren (Free Agent Signing) and Yuri Ivanov (56th overall in 2026).
Boston’s top-ranked prospect is forward James Hagens (7th overall in 2025), who is projected to begin the season in Boston. Hagens led Boston College in scoring last season with 47 points (23G 24A) in 34 games, prior to turning professional at the conclusion of his sophomore year. Right behind him in Eagles’ scoring was #2 prospect Den Letourneau (25th overall in 2024) with 39 points (17G 22A) in 36 games. Hagens and Letourneau were linemates throughout the season, and were lauded for their chemistry in creating and finishing numerous scoring chances. Letourneau is projected to turn pro at the conclusion of the 2026-27 college season, so perhaps we will see these prospects share the same ice as early as next spring.
The familiarity will continue this NCAA season between forwards Will Zellers (76th overall to COL in 2024) and Cooper Simpson (79th overall in 2025), both of whom will attend the University of North Dakota this fall. The fellow Minnesota natives train together and are close personal friends, increasing the likelihood that they will be paired together this season. Look for Zellers and Simpson to capitalize on the elite playmaking ability of sophomore Cole Reschny (18th overall to CGY in 2025) to fill the net with pucks, which they already have an overwhelming tendency to do.
The goaltender prospects at the top of the pool are also very impressive. Upon being named the Hockey East Tournament MVP, resulting in an NCAA tournament berth to cap off an excellent sophomore campaign at Merrimack College, Boston signed Max Lundgren to an entry-level contract to begin his professional career. What stands out, in addition to his 6’5″ 230 pound frame, is his calmness and work ethic. Although slated to begin the season in the AHL, the 24-year-old possesses the talent and maturity worthy of a quick ascent to the NHL ranks.
At the other end of the development spectrum, yet no less talented than Lundgren, is Russian goaltender prospect Yuri Ivanov. A second-round selection in 2026, the 17-year-old will continue his development in his home country for the time being, as he is under contract with his Russian club through the 2027-28 season. However, Ivanov possesses the superior athleticism and positional soundness to provide a nice long-term option for the Bruins in the net. His attributes resulted in a .924 regular-season save percentage last season in the MHL (Russia’s major junior league), as well as an extended playoff run in which his save percentage increased to .928.
https://thehockeylawyer.net/team-stats/boston-bruins/