Brady Martin (C, R, 6’0″, 180, Soo Greyhounds, 01/01/2007)
Brady Martin is a two-way center with a strong physical game and a consistent offensive skill set. His high compete level, hockey IQ, and versatility make him an appealing prospect for NHL teams seeking a 200′ prospect who will positively impact the game in all three zones. Martin plays a power-forward style, excelling in puck battles and creating offense through his strength, determination, and willingness to play in high-traffic areas. With continued improvements in his skating, consistency, and puck management, Martin has the potential to become a top-six NHL forward but we feel will be a solid middle-six center for a decade or more.
Strengths
Compete Level and Physicality:
Martin brings an unmatched work ethic and physical edge to every shift.
He consistently finishes every check, battles hard along the boards, and is not afraid to engage in physical play to set the tone for the game.
His 2.6 hard hits per game demonstrate his willingness to play a heavy game.
Offensive Versatility and Playmaking:
Martin has excellent hands and a soft first touch on both his forehand or backhand, allowing him to navigate through traffic and contact to create Grade “A” scoring opportunities.
His passing is highly effective, with 2.1 passes per game leading to Grade “A” scoring chances for linemates.
He has a quick release and a heavy shot, making him a consistent scoring threat from distance.
Hockey IQ and Vision:
Martin demonstrates excellent awareness in all three zones, making high percentage decisions and reading plays effectively.
He supports his teammates well, communicates on the ice, and understands when to attack or slow the pace plays.
He excels on the cycle, using his strength to protect the puck and extend plays.
Defensive Contributions:
Martin is a reliable presence in his own zone, capable of disrupting plays with his stick, positioning and physicality.
He shows a mature understanding of how to stay on the net side of the contact during wall battles and while defending scissors and mid-slot net rolls.
He is trusted with penalty-kill defensive zone face-offs and shows a complete backchecking effort to recover pucks.
Faceoff Ability:
While not elite, his 45% faceoff success rate is an area he can improve with time and strength development.
Areas for Improvement
Skating and Speed:
Martin has a powerful stride but lacks elite top-end speed, limiting his ability to separate on the rush.
Improving his explosiveness and acceleration will make him more effective in transition and allow him to create space against faster opponents.
Puck Management:
Improved decision-making from below the goal line will limit offensive zone turnovers.
He sometimes forces plays into traffic, leading to unnecessary turnovers.
Consistency in Scoring:
While Martin generates 3.5 Grade “A” scoring chances per game, he needs to improve changing his release point and changing the angle on his shot.
He misses the net 1.44 times per game and has an additional 1.28 shots blocked.
His offensive production could become more consistent with better shot selection and execution.
Defensive Coverage:
Martin occasionally loses body position when defending against faster players in transition.
Key Development Goals
Overall Skating Improvement: Focus on developing explosive acceleration and top-end speed to become a more dynamic threat in transition.
Puck Management: Prioritize smart, high-percentage plays to reduce turnovers, especially from below the goal line in the offensive zone.
Finishing Ability: Continue developing accuracy and expanding his release point to capitalize on scoring chances that are not necessarily Grade “A” opportunities.
Strength Development: Continue to build strength to dominate puck battles and improve faceoff success.
Projection
Brady Martin projects as a middle-six NHL center with the versatility to play in various roles, including special teams. His blend of skill, and physicality, combined with his high hockey IQ, makes him an asset in all situations. With targeted improvements in his skating, puck management, and an improved release, Martin has the potential to develop into a reliable, well-rounded forward who can provide secondary scoring and play a power-forward game.
Draft Outlook
We currently have Martin rated as a mid-to-late first round selection. His physical style and work ethic make him a safe and intriguing pick for teams looking for a dependable two-way forward.
Player Comparison
Troy Terry – A hardworking, physical center who leads by example and contributes in all three zones, with the ability to generate offense and play a heavy game.
Final Assessment
Brady Martin is a highly competitive, two-way center with a strong physical foundation and a versatile skill set. His ability to impact the game in all three zones, coupled with his tireless work ethic, makes him a valuable prospect with significant NHL potential. With improvements in his skating and puck management, Martin could become a dependable power-forward center capable of thriving in a variety of roles at the professional level.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images