The Brampton Steelheads have had a rocky start to their 2025-26 season, but that was to be expected after losing several of their star players from last season, including their captain, Porter Martone. 

After spending three seasons in the OHL, two and a half with the Steelheads organization, Martone decided to take his talents to the collegiate level and play for Michigan State University.

How has the former OHL star forward gotten on in his freshman season in the NCAA? Well, he needed only less than a minute in his Michigan State debut to score. 

Martone has adjusted to the stiffer competition tremendously. He leads Michigan State in points with 9 (3 goals, 6 assists) in 6 games. Additionally, maybe unsurprisingly, knowing his power forward playstyle, he leads his team in penalty minutes with 22. 

His 1.50 points per game is tied for third-best in the entire NCAA amongst U20 players. It looks like the decision for the Philadelphia Flyers' No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft to opt away from the OHL was the right call for his development. 

How has he been able to adjust so seamlessly?

Martone is a ‘dirty-area’ type of player. Not only is he willing to play and battle in those highly contested zones in the offensive zone, but he excels in them. Having success as you climb the ladder in competition requires one to head to those high-danger areas to obtain scoring opportunities. 

Martone has less time and space to work with in the NCAA compared to the OHL, and he’s showcasing that scoring development of potting those pucks home at the top of the blue paint. 

Michigan State University has started the season 5-1, and freshman Porter Martone is fueling their hot start. 

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