The Philadelphia Flyers are just two points out of a playoff spot in what should make for a dramatic end to the regular season. As if Flyers fans weren't hyped enough about this team potentially shocking the hockey world and making the playoffs, they heared that top prospect and first-round pick Porter Martone signed his entry level contract. Even more exciting is that Martone is expected to make his Flyers debut on Tuesday night against the Washington Capitals.
On Monday, Martone met with reporters after reporting for his first day of practice. With Michigan State's season ending, Martone said he's looking forward to bringing the winning culture he had from college to Philadelphia as they make a playoff push.
"I really learned what it's like to be a part of a winning culture and winning team [at MSU]. ... I think that's something I can bring here."
— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) March 30, 2026
It's been a whirlwind 24 hours for Porter Martone but he's ready to contribute with the Flyers. pic.twitter.com/7A1H8MN1DJ
"I really learned what it's like to be part of a winning culture and a winning team there. I think that's something I can bring here," said Martone.
Porter Martone looking to help Flyers make playoffs in final push of season
Michigan State is one of the top college hockey programs in the nation, winning three National Championships and making the NCAA Tournament 30 times. Three of those trips happened in these past three consecutive seasons.
Martone played in just this past season for the Spartans. In 35 games, Martone scored 25 goals and recorded 25 assists while posting a +24 plus/minus ratio. His play contributed to Michigan State securing the No. 3 seed in the NCAA Tournament, where they defeated No. 14 UConn in the regional semifinal 2-1, while losing to No. 12 Wisconsin in the regional final 4-3 in overtime, just missing out on a spot in the Frozen Four. The Spartan's season ended after going 26-9-2.
Based on Martone's comments, he was ready to make his pro debut with the Flyers as soon as his collegiate season ended. It will be interesting to see where head coach Rick Tocchet will line him up, whther it will be in the bottom six or potentially in the top six alongside some of their best players. Given the potential of Martone, it wouldn't be totally shocking if it were the latter.
The Flyers have been one of the best teams in hockey since their return from the Olympic break in late February. In the last ten games, the Flyers went 8-1-1. While that is great, the Eastern Conference playoff picture is crowded. As of Tuesday morning, they are tied with both the Ottawa Senators and Detroit Red Wings with 86 points, and are still behind the Columbus Blue Jackets for the final Wild Card spot. There is such little room for error for the Flyers, even with nine games left on the season.
The team has been on fire, and maybe adding Martone to the mix will truly give them the boost needed to secure a playoff spot. Martone knows about winning, and hewants to bring it to Philadelphia for a franbase that hasn't enjoyed a playoff berth since 2020.