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One of Peterborough’s brightest young hockey stars is heading south of the border to sharpen his game and bring his NHL goals one step closer. Porter Martone, a standout talent and sixth overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft by the Philadelphia Flyers, announced this afternoon via Instagram that he’s committed to Michigan State University for the 2025-26 season.
The move marks a major milestone in Martone’s already impressive career. The 18-year-old winger, a product of the Peterborough minor hockey system, has been a force in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) as captain of the Brampton Steelheads. This past season, the 6’3”, 205-pound forward posted 37 goals and 61 assists for 98 points in 57 regular-season games, then added four goals and five assists in six playoff contests. His size, skill, and physical edge cemented his status as a top-10 NHL draft pick.
Martone’s NCAA commitment is made possible by a recent rule change allowing Canadian Hockey League (CHL) players to retain their amateur status while competing in U.S. college hockey. He joins a growing trend of CHL standouts, including projected 2026 first-overall pick Gavin McKenna (Penn State), turning to the NCAA to refine their games. At Michigan State, Martone will suit up under head coach Adam Nightingale for a Spartans squad that has captured back-to-back Big Ten regular-season and tournament titles. He’ll also reunite with fellow Flyers prospect Shane Vansaghi, a second-round pick, as part of a loaded roster looking to rebound from a first-round NCAA Tournament exit against Cornell.
Choosing the NCAA route allows Martone to face older, stronger competition in one of the NCAA’s toughest conferences while preserving a year on his NHL entry-level contract. It’s a strategic move for the power forward, who already has international experience representing Canada at the 2025 IIHF World Championship. His game, defined by playmaking vision, high-end skill, and punishing physicality, appears well-suited to the NCAA stage.
Martone’s journey from Peterborough’s minor hockey scene to NCAA competition reflects a path few locals have taken, but one that could sharpen his edge for the NHL. With the Spartans, he’ll have the opportunity to elevate his game even further before taking the next leap with the Flyers.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
