Choosing the Collegiate Route: A Strategic Development Decision

Martone, a former Brampton Steelheads winger, acknowledges his familiarity with McKenna, stating, “I’ve played with him at a couple events. He’s special.” However, personal narratives take a backseat to the larger goal. “For me, we don’t really trash talk or anything. I’m focused on what we’re doing here at Michigan State. I think we’ve just got to come out and play our game. I think if we do that, we’ve got a good chance at being successful.”

The decision to join the Spartans wasn’t taken lightly. After being selected by the Flyers, Martone faced a pivotal choice: immediately pursue an NHL roster spot, potentially facing demotion to junior hockey, or hone his skills in the competitive environment of U.S. college hockey. The rule change allowing CHL players to compete in NCAA hockey opened a new avenue for development.

“I sat down with my agents and the Flyers staff after development camp and tried to think what’s the best option for me to reach my full potential in five, 10 years when I’m in my prime,” Martone explained. “At the end of the day, it was a really tough decision. Obviously, you want to go to an NHL training camp and put your best foot forward to make the NHL but also there’s different circumstances. When I sat down, I thought a year in the weight room and a year practicing five days a week was going to be best for my development. I made the decision to come to Michigan State and it’s been amazing so far. I couldn’t have had a better time here.”

This path isn’t unique. Of the 16 North Americans drafted in the top 20 this year, three are already in the NHL, eight are in the CHL, and five, like Martone and McKenna, are developing their game in the NCAA. This trend highlights the growing appeal of college hockey as a crucial stepping stone for aspiring NHL players.

Michigan State’s appeal extends beyond the ice. The program’s state-of-the-art athletic performance facilities, spearheaded by director Will Morlock, were a significant draw. Coupled with a rigorous practice schedule and the opportunity to compete against older, more seasoned players, the environment is designed to accelerate growth for a developing power forward.

“I did explore some options but when I came to Michigan State for my visit, talking to coach (Adam) Nightingale, kind of the philosophy they have here, they’re really down-to-earth people,” Martone said. “I really respect everyone and just kind of the culture they have here. The big thing for me was nothing was going to be given to me. That’s something I really liked. … Nothing’s given to everyone. You’ve got to work for it.”

The Spartans’ roster boasts an impressive 15 NHL draft picks, fostering a highly competitive and motivated atmosphere. This, combined with the electric atmosphere of Big Ten arenas – a stark contrast to the often-sparse crowds Martone experienced in Brampton – makes Michigan State an attractive destination for elite prospects.

“Just coming to the college atmosphere, the band playing, the student section, I wasn’t really used to that in junior hockey,” Martone said. “I was just kind of excited to step in right away and get used to the rowdy atmosphere and the college-hockey feel.”

Both Martone and McKenna are expected to represent Canada at the upcoming World Junior training camp in Niagara Falls, Ontario, seeking to improve upon last year’s quarterfinal exit. Martone reflects on the previous disappointment, stating, “Any time you put on the Canadian flag, you’re always expected to do the best and win a gold medal. Obviously to lose in the quarterfinals isn’t what we go for… It was tough. There were some tears shed. But for me and everyone who was on that team who could get another shot at it, it’s a learning experience. We’re definitely going to have an attack mentality this year.”

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Injury News Across the NCAA Landscape

The college hockey landscape has been impacted by key injuries. The University of Michigan announced that freshman defenseman and Calgary Flames prospect Henry Mews will miss the remainder of the season due to a knee injury sustained against Notre Dame. Penn State is also dealing with a setback, as third-year forward and Nashville Predators prospect Aiden Fink is sidelined with an upper-body injury. Meanwhile, Sarnia Sting forward Alessandro Di Iorio, a 2026 NHL Draft prospect, is nearing a return from an elbow injury.

Weekend Hockey Schedule: Key Matchups to Follow

• Friday, Nov. 7: Denver Pioneers (4-3-1) at Western Michigan Broncos (5-3), 7 p.m. ET – The Broncos, reeling from a recent loss, face a tough test against No. 9 Denver.
• Friday, Nov. 7: Brantford Bulldogs (13-0-2-1) at Oshawa Generals (5-12-0-0), 7:05 p.m. ET – Maple Leafs first-round pick Ben Danford returns to his former team.
• Saturday, Nov. 8: Halifax Mooseheads (10-5-1-0) at Charlottetown Islanders (11-4-1-3), 7 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. AT – A clash between two Eastern Conference powerhouses in the QMJHL.
• Saturday, Nov. 8: U17 World Challenge final at Truro, N.S., 7:30 p.m. ET / 6:30 p.m. AT – The championship game of an international tournament showcasing future stars.
• Tuesday, Nov. 11: Prince Albert Raiders (10-0-3-0) at Everett Silvertips (13-1-1-0), 10:05 p.m. ET / 7:05 p.m. PT – A battle between two of the WHL’s top teams.

Frequently Asked Questions About Porter Martone and NCAA Hockey