CHICAGO — As the 2025 NHL Draft nears, the Chicago Blackhawks are reportedly narrowing their focus to two top prospects for their No. 3 overall pick — with a strong lean toward winger Porter Martone, according to ESPN.
Martone’s Rising Stock Makes Him a Top Contender
At 6-foot-3 and 207 pounds, Martone has impressed scouts with his physicality, scoring touch, and leadership. The Brampton Steelheads winger netted 37 goals and totaled 98 points in 57 games last season while serving as team captain. His combination of size, skill, and intelligence on the ice has drawn comparisons to four-time NHL All-Star Corey Perry.
While Chicago had initially been linked to Moncton center Caleb Desnoyers, Martone’s surge up draft boards may prove hard to ignore.
ESPN’s Greg Wyshynski and Kristen Shilton say Martone’s all-around talent could make him the most NHL-ready winger on the board.
Strategic Fit Alongside Connor Bedard
The Blackhawks are said to be building around former No. 1 overall pick Connor Bedard, who has shown promise but hasn’t yet had a complementary linemate to elevate his game. Team history shows how pairing key forwards — like Patrick Kane with Jonathan Toews, or Tony Amonte with Jeremy Roenick — helped elevate both players to stardom.
Martone could be that long-missing puzzle piece. His ability to both score and distribute would pair well with Bedard’s offensive instincts and help take pressure off the young center.
A No-Brainer Pick?
If the Blackhawks opt not to trade the pick — which some rumors suggest is on the table — Martone is now viewed by many insiders as the most likely selection. His profile checks all the boxes the team is reportedly prioritizing:
-
High offensive ceiling
-
Strong physical presence
-
Playmaking ability
-
Mature leadership at a young age
Do you think Porter Martone is the right pick for Chicago? Share your thoughts on what the Blackhawks should do with the No. 3 draft slot in the comments at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
