Martone brings International experience to World Junior Championship

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As Canada looks to rebound from back-to-back quarterfinal exits at the World Junior Championship, they'll lean on the international experience of Michigan State forward Porter Martone. At just 19, the Peterborough native has already medalled four times on the international stage.

The Philadelphia Flyers prospect and sixth overall pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft has built an impressive resume with Hockey Canada. Last season, Martone captained the Brampton Steelheads while representing Canada at multiple events.

Martone suited up at both the World Junior Championship and the World Championship, gaining valuable experience against elite competition at both the major junior and professional levels.

In 2024, Martone captained Team Canada to a gold medal at the U18 World Championship in Finland, where he broke Chicago Blackhawks star Connor Bedard’s all-time Canadian points record at the tournament.

Now in his freshman season at Michigan State, Martone has carried that momentum into the collegiate ranks. The power forward has 11 goals and 20 points through 16 games, leading the Spartans in scoring.

“I think it’s been a really good start,” Martone said. “There’s definitely an adjustment going over there to college, kind of learning the style of play. I think I’ve evolved as a player and as a person, so it’s been great for me.”

“I think I’ve grown up and I’m mature. But on the ice, I think I’ve added another element to my game that’s going to be helpful at this tournament and moving on with my hopefully pro career.”

“I think I’ve really just found my identity as a player, and I think I’ve added a lot of strength in the gym that’s helped me with my speed on the ice. I think I’m more consistent every shift and can just kind of be that power forward I need to be.”

At last year’s World Junior Championship, Martone appeared in three games, recording one assist. With his international success and strong start to the college season, he's expected to have a larger role.

Martone believes the group assembled for this year’s tournament has the talent to medal.

“I think we have a group here that can bring a lot of different attributes and a lot of different things to the table, so I’m excited,” Martone said. “I know that group down there is excited, and I think all of Canada should be as well.”