Giacomo Martino (LW, L, 5’11”, 186, Sioux City Musketeers, 04/29/2005, Northeastern)
Giacomo Martino is a high-compete, high-IQ forward who plays a possession-heavy, detail-oriented game at both ends of the ice. While not a dynamic scorer by draft standards, he consistently drives play through intelligent puck touches, strong body positioning, and relentless puck pursuit. Martino’s value lies in his predictability, work ethic, and ability to make small-area plays that lead to team success. His tools suggest middle-six upside if surrounded by pace and finishers, but lack of physicality, high-end speed, and average shot tools may cap his ceiling.
Why Giacomo Martino Should Be an NHL Draft Pick
1) Elite Hockey IQ and Vision
Martino’s 1.48 pre-shot passes/game and 88% pass completion rate speak to his high-level processing speed and offensive awareness. He consistently makes smart plays in all three zones and can manipulate defenders through puck movement and off-puck timing. His ability to scan and delay to find secondary and tertiary options off the rush translates to success at higher levels.
2) Defensive Reliability and Details
One of the most consistent parts of his game is his defensive anticipation. He has a knack for breaking up plays (3.4 takeaways/game) and plays with a consistently active stick (0.42 blocked shots/game, good body positioning, smart puck angling). He understands time and space better than most forwards in the USHL and has already proven he can handle tough defensive matchups.
3) Strong Offensive Zone Intelligence
Despite only an 11% Grade A chance conversion rate, Martino averages 3.1 scoring chances/game, which is elite. His ability to find soft spots in coverage and re-attack space after movement is noticeable. While he lacks elite goal scoring traits, his knack for being in the right place at the right time puts him in consistent scoring positions.
4) Competitive Motor and Work Ethic
Martino brings sustained effort on every shift. He’s active on the forecheck, wins loose pucks, and has 12 puck battles/game with a 53% win rate, which are strong marks for a 5’11” winger. He hunts pucks in all three zones and supports his linemates with timely back pressure and communicates defensive reads.
Why Giacomo Martino Should Not Be an NHL Draft Pick
1) Lack of High-End Scoring Tools
Martino’s 11% scoring conversion rate on Grade A chances is below what you’d expect from a top-six forward. His 4.3 shot attempts/game yield just 2.6 shots on goal, with 0.74 blocked and 1.05 missing the net — showing inefficiency and lack of deception in release. His shot needs to improve for his offensive zone play-driving to translate to NHL production.
2) Minimal Physical Impact
Martino is not a physically assertive forward. His 0.15 hits/game is a concern for a winger logging 20 minutes/night. He has the strength and balance to protect pucks in tight, but he doesn’t initiate contact often or finish plays physically. While he’s not soft, his game lacks bite, and that may limit his effectiveness in higher-traffic NHL scenarios.
3) Limited Versatility Without Elite Speed or Skill
While Martino is a very intelligent skater, his top speed is average and his skating mechanics can look a bit stiff and upright. Without elite pace or physicality, he will need to excel as a facilitator or penalty killer — and his 0.08 shorthanded TOI/game and modest goal production don’t scream special teams versatility at this time.
4) Could Be a “Tweener” at the Pro Level
Martino may fall into a tweener category — smart enough for bottom-six duties but without the physical engagement or grit expected of NHL fourth-liners, and lacking the dynamism to play in the top six. His projection will hinge on whether he can round out the edges of his game (finishing, pace, interior play).
Projection and Outlook
Player Projection: Bottom-six two-way winger who plays on a checking line and second-unit PK
Development Path: 3–4 years NCAA, potential for AHL seasoning before cracking an NHL roster
Draft Recommendation: 4th through early 5th Round
Martino’s combination of hockey sense, puck support, defensive reliability, and possession game makes him a worthwhile bet in the later rounds. He won’t “wow” with flash, but his IQ, puck movement, and detailed habits project well into a pro system. If he can improve his shot mechanics and physical commitment, there’s a pathway to an NHL role. For a team valuing smart, coachable players who can play up or down a lineup, Martino is an appealing selection.
Photo credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images