Another CHL-to-NCAA domino fell on Monday afternoon as Philadelphia Flyers 2025 first-round pick Porter Martone announced his commitment to Michigan State for the 2025-26 season via Instagram.
The decision, first reported by Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman, signals a strategic move for the Peterborough, Ontario native to prioritize development in the NCAA over immediate professional play.
“Go Green,” Martone said. “Excited for this next chapter with @msu_hockey.”
This comes just 11 days after projected 2026 first-overall pick Gavin McKenna committed to Penn State.
Martone arrives in East Lansing on the heels of a blistering 2024‑25 campaign with the Brampton Steelheads of the OHL, where he amassed 98 points (37 goals, 61 assists) in just 57 regular‑season games — adding nine more points in six playoff contests. His blend of size (6’2 “, 210 lbs), vision, and scoring prowess has drawn comparisons to NHL stars like Mikko Rantanen, underscoring why the Flyers were comfortable selecting him high in the draft.
Michigan State offers Martone the chance to compete at a higher pace and physicality than major junior hockey can provide. The Spartans, fresh off capturing the Big Ten title but suffering a first‑round NCAA Tournament exit, are adding Martone alongside fellow Flyers draft pick Shane Vansaghi and other high‑caliber prospects like Cayden Lindstrom and Eric Nilson. Analysts view this as a mutually beneficial move as Martone sharpens his game against seasoned collegiate athletes, while Michigan State replenishes its elite talent pipeline.
From the Flyers’ perspective, general manager Danny Brière has expressed full support of Martone’s college route, confirming that Philadelphia will maintain his NHL rights throughout his collegiate tenure. With the organization still rebuilding, endorsing a patient developmental path like Michigan State could be vital for a franchise looking to accelerate the maturation of its top prospects without rushing.
