Rookie Martone Proving He's More Than Just an Offensive Threat for Flyers

The 19-year-old has impressed with his two-way game and hockey IQ in his first NHL playoffs

Apr. 17, 2026 at 6:11pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a hockey player in mid-stride, surrounded by geometric shapes and planes of color, capturing the dynamic motion and energy of the game.Rookie forward Porter Martone's well-rounded game and high hockey IQ have made him a valuable two-way threat for the Flyers in the playoffs.Today in Pittsburgh

Porter Martone, a 19-year-old rookie, has made a big impact for the Philadelphia Flyers in his first few weeks in the NHL. While his offensive production has been noteworthy, with 4 goals and 10 points in 9 games, it's his overall two-way game and high hockey IQ that have really caught the attention of his coaches and teammates.

Why it matters

Martone's ability to think the game at a high level and contribute in all three zones is crucial for the Flyers as they head into the playoffs. His well-rounded skill set makes him a valuable asset beyond just his goal-scoring, and could give the Flyers an edge against their first-round opponent, the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The details

Flyers head coach Rick Tocchet praised Martone's 'anticipation' and 'hockey IQ', saying the rookie is able to 'make the next play even before he has the puck'. Teammate Owen Tippett also highlighted Martone's strong puck possession and ability to 'outsmarts' defenders with his positioning and stick work. Martone, who had a standout season at Michigan State, has carried that two-way game to the NHL, posting a plus-4 rating in his 9 games so far.

  • Martone joined the Flyers and made his NHL debut earlier this season.
  • The Flyers and Penguins will begin their first-round playoff series on Saturday, April 18.

The players

Porter Martone

A 19-year-old rookie forward for the Philadelphia Flyers who has made an immediate impact with his offensive production and two-way play.

Rick Tocchet

The head coach of the Philadelphia Flyers, who has praised Martone's high hockey IQ and anticipation as key parts of his game.

Owen Tippett

A Flyers teammate of Martone's who has also highlighted the rookie's strong puck possession and ability to 'outsmarts' defenders.

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What they’re saying

“Anticipation is big in his game. And his hockey IQ. His proficiency around the offensive game. Try to be a second stick for your defenseman. You can tell he's got that hockey IQ.”

— Rick Tocchet, Head Coach, Philadelphia Flyers

“He's a big kid and he sees the ice really well. He kind of makes the next play even before he even has the puck. He's strong on the puck so even if there's a guy on him, he kind of outsmarts him with his stick and his body positioning. And he makes that next play pretty quickly.”

— Owen Tippett, Flyers Teammate

What’s next

The Flyers and Penguins will begin their first-round playoff series on Saturday, April 18 in Pittsburgh. Martone will be looking to continue his strong two-way play as the Flyers try to advance past their in-state rivals.

The takeaway

Martone's well-rounded game and high hockey IQ have made him a valuable asset for the Flyers beyond just his offensive production. His ability to contribute in all three zones could give the Flyers an edge in their playoff matchup against the Penguins.