Unlike most years, the 2025 NHL Draft does not have a clear-cut first overall pick. Though defenseman Matthew Schaefer is widely considered the current favourite, forward Porter Martone has quickly become a top contender thanks to his impressive showing at the IIHF World Championship with Team Canada. At just 18, Martone is proving he belongs with the best—and he’s doing it in front of the entire hockey world.
Learning from the Best at the World Stage
Porter Martone is gaining valuable experience as part of Team Canada at the 2025 IIHF World Championship. Sharing the ice with NHL legends like Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon, Martone is soaking in every lesson.
“It’s huge just learning from these NHL guys,” Martone said. “They are the best in the world for a reason.” The Brampton Steelheads captain originally joined the team to practise and observe, not to play. But his commitment to learning and growing made a big impression on the coaching staff.
Canadian coach Dean Evason praised Martone’s maturity: “There was no commitment to him getting into our lineup, and he still chose to stay. He wants to learn and be part of the group.”
Unexpected Opportunity Turns into Breakout Moment
When Bo Horvat was ruled out due to injury, Martone got a surprise opportunity to play against Sweden—and he delivered. Despite initial hesitation from the coaching staff, Martone proved he could compete with NHL pros.
“He doesn’t seem intimidated by the environment,” Evason said. “He’s doing all the right things, so we kept playing him.”
His ability to handle the pressure, play smart hockey, and match the pace of professional players speaks volumes about his readiness for the next level.
The Modern Power Forward
Martone is known as a big, strong forward who brings a physical edge to his game—exactly the kind of player NHL teams crave during playoff hockey. His size, skill, and hockey IQ make him a complete package.
“I’m a big power forward who has a really good hockey IQ,” Martone explained. “You see the NHL playoffs right now—they play hard. I try to be a hard player to play against, and when I get a chance in the offensive zone, I can drain it.”
His style is tailor-made for the modern NHL: fast, skilled, and physically tough.
A Humble Contender for No. 1
Even with growing attention around his draft position, Martone remains humble and focused. When asked about going first overall, he didn’t make bold claims or put down other prospects.
“There are a lot of good prospects in this year’s draft,” he said. “I just try to come to the rink every day and focus on the process. I’ll be happy to play for any organization that wants me.”
That grounded approach, paired with his performance, is earning him respect across the league.
Porter Martone may not have started the year as the favourite to go No. 1 in the 2025 NHL Draft, but he’s finishing strong. His standout performance on the international stage, his pro-ready game style, and his humble, team-first mindset are turning heads. Whether or not he goes first overall, Martone is proving he’s ready to make an impact in the NHL—and whichever team drafts him is likely to get a future star.
