With the 2025 NHL Draft fast approaching, the Philadelphia Flyers find themselves in an interesting position, both literally and strategically.
Holding the sixth overall pick, the Flyers are likely to miss out on the elite centers projected to go in the top five. But one rising name could fill a different need: right winger Porter Martone.
Why Porter Martone Fits What the Flyers Need
Martone, a 6-foot-3 winger from the Brampton Steelheads, turned heads with a 98-point season in the Ontario Hockey League, posting 37 goals and 61 assists in 57 games. He’s big, skilled and plays with the kind of edge that fits the Flyers’ blue-collar identity.
According to The Athletic, Martone is starting to emerge as the final top-tier prospect still likely available at pick six. Anton Frondell had been a projected fit for the Flyers, but after a standout combine, he may now go as high as third. That has turned Philadelphia’s attention toward Martone, who offers one of the best blends of size and scoring in the draft.
On paper, the Flyers already have a crowded right wing: Matvei Michkov, Travis Konecny, Owen Tippett, Tyson Foerster, Bobby Brink and Garnet Hathaway. But aside from Konecny and the still-developing Michkov, none have locked in long-term roles as top-tier offensive threats.
That’s where Martone comes in.
He isn’t just another big winger. He’s a refined offensive player with a heavy shot, elite puck vision and high hockey IQ. He captained Team Canada to U18 gold in 2024 and wears the “C” for Brampton, evidence of his leadership ability at just 18 years old.
Scouts praise his puck control in tight areas, his net-front presence and his poise under pressure. He’s the kind of player who makes smart decisions in high-stakes moments.
The Steelheads restore their two goal lead 🚨🚨#NHLDraft prospect Porter Martone finishes off a sweet cross-crease dish from @SeattleKraken prospect Carson Rehkopf to score his 36th goal of the season for the @OHLSteelheads!#OHL | @CHLHockey pic.twitter.com/V2w0g59sb5
— Ontario Hockey League (@OHLHockey) March 23, 2025
That said, he’s not a perfect prospect.
Martone’s skating is often cited as a weak spot. It’s not terrible, but lacking in burst and top-end speed compared to other top prospects. Defensively, he’s reliable but can occasionally drift out of coverage. Still, most analysts agree he projects as a top-six NHL winger with true first-line potential.
Could the Flyers Make Room for Martone?
The Flyers’ front office has some tough decisions ahead. If general manager Daniel Brière believes Martone is the best player available, he may have to clear room on the right side. That could lead to trades involving Tippett, Foerster or Brink, possibly to improve goaltending or add to the blue line.
Another possibility is that Brière uses Martone’s draft value to move down a few spots and stockpile picks. But passing on an NHL-ready winger with Martone’s production and leadership traits would be a big risk.
If Martone is still on the board at pick six, don’t be surprised if the Flyers make him their newest building block.