The Flyers got bigger after the first round of the draft. It’s quite obvious the orange and black wanted a Center, but size too, “We wanted Centers, but Porter was the one guy (who wasn’t a center) in that range that we felt we couldn’t let go by.”
Bruere continues, “Because we didn’t get to jump in at a Center at 6, we wanted to get a Center. A Center who was a difference maker. Jack was going pretty soon after our pick, so we made the trade. We tried to get quality over quantity with that pick.”
Just who are Porter Martone and Jack Nesbitt?
Porter Martone
Porter Martone is a Canadian junior ice hockey forward, born October 26, 2006, in Peterborough, Ontario. He currently serves as captain for the Brampton Steelheads of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Standing at 6’3″ and weighing around 208 pounds, Martone is a right-shot winger known for his blend of size, skill, and physicality, often compared to NHL players like Matthew Tkachuk and Corey Perry.
Martone led the Steelheads with 98 points (37 goals, 61 assists) in 57 games, ranking seventh in league scoring. His playmaking ability, high hockey IQ, and physical presence make him a standout power forward. He excels at puck control, winning board battles, and creating scoring opportunities, though his skating speed and defensive consistency are areas for improvement.
His ceiling in the NHL, based on scouting reports and performance, is that of a top-line winger capable of driving play, scoring at a high level, and impacting games with both skill and physicality.
His father, Mike Martone, was a professional hockey player drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in 1996. Porter is considered a top prospect with first-line NHL potential, valued for his leadership, competitive edge, and offensive instincts, “Martone is a really good player,” Briere said in his presser after the draft. “He’s pretty close to being ready. I’m not sure he’s going to play for us this year, but out of this draft, he’s pretty close to being the most ready out of that group.”
Strengths:
- Size and Physicality: Martone’s 6’3″, 208-pound frame makes him a dominant presence. He uses his size effectively in board battles, protecting the puck, and establishing a net-front presence. His physical play draws comparisons to NHL power forwards like Matthew Tkachuk and Corey Perry.
- Playmaking and Vision: A highly skilled playmaker, Martone excels at setting up teammates with precise passes. His 61 assists in the 2024-25 OHL season (98 points in 57 games) highlight his elite hockey IQ and ability to read plays. He thrives in creating scoring chances, especially in high-pressure situations.
- Scoring Ability: While primarily a playmaker, Martone has a strong wrist shot and can score in tight spaces, particularly around the net. His 37 goals in 2024-25 demonstrate his offensive versatility.
- Leadership: As captain of the Brampton Steelheads and Team Canada at the 2024 U18 World Championships, Martone leads by example with his work ethic and competitive drive. His ability to elevate teammates is a key asset.
- Puck Control: Exceptional stickhandling and puck protection skills allow him to maintain possession under pressure. He’s difficult to knock off the puck and excels in cycle plays.
- International Success: Martone’s record-setting 22 points (5 goals, 17 assists) at the 2024 U18 Worlds, where he captained Canada to gold, showcases his ability to perform on big stages. His inclusion in Canada’s 2025 IIHF World Championship roster further highlights his high-end potential.
Jack Nesbitt
Jack Nesbitt is an 18-year-old Canadian hockey player from Sarnia, Ontario, born on January 12, 2007. He is a Center for the Windsor Spitfires in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Standing at 6’4 and weighing approximately 183-186 pounds, Nesbitt is a power forward known for his size, hockey IQ, physicality, and two-way play. He is a member of the Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory, a First Nation on Manitoulin Island, and has celebrated his Indigenous heritage.
Nesbitt had a breakout season with the Windsor Spitfires, scoring 25 goals and 64 points (39 assists) in 65 games, with a +12 rating. He contributed six power-play goals, two shorthanded goals, and won 51.4% of his faceoffs. In the playoffs, he added 10 points (1 goal, 9 assists) in 12 games.
Nesbitt played a key role for Team Canada at the 2025 U18 World Championship, contributing five points (two goals, three assists) in six games, including a goal and an assist in the gold-medal game against Sweden.
Strengths:
- Size and Physicality: Nesbitt uses his 6’4 frame to dominate puck battles, protect the puck, and create havoc at the net front. His elite hand-eye coordination shines in deflections and finishing second-chance opportunities. He’s strong in the faceoff circle and plays a 200-foot game, excelling in all situations (Power Play, Penalty Kill, and five-on-five).
- Hockey IQ: He reads plays well, anticipates passing lanes, and makes smart, tape-to-tape passes. His defensive reliability, active stick, and positioning make him a menace in all zones, often forcing turnovers.
- Competitiveness: Nesbitt’s work ethic is evident, as seen in his Game 7 performance against Kitchener despite battling strep throat, logging 23 minutes and assisting on the team’s only goal. He also contributed 2 goals and 1 assist in the U-18 World Championship’s semi-finals and gold medal game, helping Canada win gold.
Danny Briere said he was their guy all along:
About Author
