Michigan State's Porter Martone Signs Entry-Level Deal with Flyers

Freshman star departs after team's NCAA tournament elimination

Mar. 29, 2026 at 5:34pm

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One day after his team was eliminated from the NCAA Ice Hockey Tournament, Porter Martone has departed Michigan State and signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Philadelphia Flyers. Martone was Philadelphia's first-round pick (sixth overall) in the 2025 draft and is one of just five freshmen in Michigan State history to put up 50 points in a season.

Why it matters

Martone's departure is a significant loss for Michigan State's hockey program, as he was a key contributor and one of the top young talents in college hockey. His decision to turn pro after his freshman season reflects the increasing trend of elite prospects forgoing additional college eligibility to join the NHL ranks.

The details

Martone scored 25 goals and had 25 assists for the Spartans this past season. The team's NCAA tournament run ended in disappointment, as they lost a 3-1 third-period lead to Wisconsin before giving up the winning goal just 19 seconds into overtime.

  • On March 28, 2026, Michigan State was eliminated from the NCAA Ice Hockey Tournament.
  • On March 29, 2026, Martone signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Philadelphia Flyers.

The players

Porter Martone

A freshman forward for the Michigan State Spartans hockey team who was the Flyers' first-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.

Philadelphia Flyers

An NHL team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that drafted Martone in the first round in 2025.

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What’s next

Martone will now join the Flyers organization and begin his professional hockey career, with the expectation that he will compete for a roster spot on the NHL club next season.

The takeaway

Martone's decision to turn pro after just one standout season in college reflects the increasing trend of elite hockey prospects forgoing additional NCAA eligibility to join the NHL ranks as soon as possible. His departure is a significant loss for Michigan State, but a major gain for the Flyers as they add a talented young forward to their organization.