Porter Martone (Photo by Dennis Pajot/Getty Images)
Porter Martone entered the 2024–25 season with plenty of eyes on him. A highly regarded prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft, Martone carried big expectations and an even bigger frame into his second year with the Mississauga Steelheads. Known for his blend of size, offensive instincts, and compete level, the 6-foot-3 winger delivered a season that not only backed up the early hype but showed clear signs of a player rounding into pro form.
Scouts and fans alike have taken notice of Martone’s ability to impact the game in multiple ways. Whether it’s crashing the net for a greasy goal, making smart reads in transition, or winning puck battles along the boards, he’s embraced the kind of responsibility that comes with being a top-line forward. But beyond the stat line, what impressed many this year was how much more consistent and complete his game looked from night to night.
With the draft now just a few months away, Martone is focused on continuing his upward climb. He knows there’s still work to be done and more steps to take before he reaches the NHL, but his approach—both on and off the ice—makes it clear that he’s not just dreaming about getting there. He’s preparing to stay.
A Season of Growth
Beyond the stat sheet and highlight-reel goals, Martone’s growth this year came in areas that scouts truly value: consistency, leadership, and effort. The 6-foot-3 winger began to lean into the responsibilities of being a go-to guy, both on the scoresheet and in the locker room. Speaking about his season, Martone was honest in evaluating what changed and what clicked down the stretch.
“I became more consistent on a nightly basis, use my size and speed to mix things up in the offensive zone and get into the right spaces,” said Martone in an exclusive interview with RG. “I feel that once I did that more regularly, then the success came. It’s just a shame we ran into a very good team in the first round.”
That first-round exit in the OHL Playoffs at the hands of the Oshawa Generals clearly still stings, but Martone’s focus remains on the bigger picture. His drive to succeed isn’t limited to personal accolades. He’s thinking long-term and embracing the kind of mentality it takes to lead a team to meaningful wins.
“I want to win Cups and create a winning culture,” said Martone. “That means being a leader in the room and pulling everyone into battle with you, while also holding everyone accountable.”
That leadership mentality goes hand-in-hand with his dedication to improving every offseason. Martone knows that bridging the gap between junior hockey and the NHL comes down to details—most of which happen long before the puck drops in the fall.
“I need to spend the summer in the gym getting faster and stronger if I’m going to play my game at the NHL level,” added Martone. “You really want to make sure you come into an NHL training camp ready to steal a spot, and I feel like I could do that if I spend the summer putting in extra efforts in the gym.”
Becoming a Power Forward
While some prospects focus on perfecting one aspect of their game, Martone is building himself into a modern-day power forward. He understands that his physical tools and scoring touch could eventually put him in the same conversation as some of today’s most trusted playoff performers.
“I don’t model my game after one specific player, but the Tkachuk brothers are guys that I study on a daily basis, and I also remember prime Corey Perry and try to take from his game as a big body and a scorer,” said Martone. “They’re the kind of guys that, when the going gets tough, teams will lean on them heavily, and they always deliver.”
Growing up in Toronto, Martone had no shortage of hockey idols. And this year, one particular forward on his hometown team caught his attention for his work ethic and ability to elevate the play of those around him.
“I grew up watching the Leafs a lot, I really like Matthew Knies and the way he’s grown this year,” said Martone. “He works really hard and complements Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner so well.”
Still, despite his Toronto roots, Martone isn’t shy about his admiration for some of the league’s iconic atmospheres. One legendary arena in particular stands out to him as a dream destination.
“But even though I grew up in Toronto, the Bell Centre is probably the best place to play hockey. Just so electric and a place I can’t wait to visit as a player.”
That atmosphere was put on full display during the 4 Nations Face-Off, where Martone’s admiration for gritty, hard-nosed hockey was further solidified. The intensity of those games only confirmed his belief in the value of tough, skilled wingers who can play in the trenches.
“I loved watching the Tkachuks and Sam Bennett at the 4 Nations Face-Off this year,” said Martone. “Those tight-checking games just show you how incredibly important a power forward is to helping you get ahead. They’re rare and everyone wants them.”
OHL, NCAA or NHL?
As for what comes next, Martone is keeping an open mind. With a physically advanced frame and a game that already resembles a pro style, it’s not out of the question that he could challenge for an NHL spot right out of camp. Still, he’s aware that development is a process, and he’s willing to do whatever his future organization believes is best.
“That will be up to the team that drafts me, I’m willing to do whatever they want me to do,” said Martone. “If I don’t win a spot in camp in the fall, we’ll evaluate where it’s best for me to go, but I haven’t looked into NCAA schools at this time.”
Whether it’s back to the OHL for another year of top-line minutes or jumping straight into pro hockey, Porter Martone is ready to prove himself. His mindset, maturity, and skillset make him a name to watch closely as the 2025 NHL Draft approaches.
Marco D'Amico
