Porter Martone (a 19-year-old rookie right winger for the Flyers) has publicly credited Flyers Captain Sean Couturier for his leadership, poise, versatility, and on-ice example during the 2026 playoffs.
“The older guys in this room did a great job, starts with Coots as a Captain, followed down by all the older veterans in the room. They taught what it takes to be a Flyer,” Martone said at exit interviews.
Martone has highlighted what he’s learned from Couturier early in his NHL career (after just a handful of games with the team). He specifically praised:
- Couturier’s poise and ability to contribute in almost every way.
- His strength on the walls, winning puck battles, and picking up rims (a tactical skill Martone has worked to incorporate into his own game).
- Watching Couturier work on these details daily after practice.
Martone called it “huge” to observe the captain up close and noted the surreal aspect of having Couturier — who had a standout playoff performance as a 19-year-old against the Penguins in 2012 — as his first NHL Captain: “It’s pretty crazy… Being on the same team as him, and he’s your first Captain.”
Couturier has reciprocated the respect, describing Martone as a “mature kid” who knows the game well, is responsible on both sides of the puck, and doesn’t need much guidance beyond staying in the moment. The veteran has emphasized leading by example with the Flyers’ young roster.
This fits into the broader narrative of the 2025-26 Flyers season and playoffs, where a youthful team (including breakout performers like Martone) has leaned on veterans like Couturier for leadership amid matchups against experienced opponents like the Penguins. Martone has had a strong playoff start, drawing direct comparisons to Couturier’s own teenage postseason emergence.
The duo has also contributed together on the ice, including joint efforts in key wins. Couturier’s redefined role and consistent play have been highlighted as stabilizing factors for the group.
This reflects strong veteran-rookie mentorship dynamics on the Flyers.
Check out our Flyers Nitty Gritty Store
Cool Matvei Michkov merchandise
About Author
