Owen Martin (C, 6’0″, 186, Spokane Chiefs, 05/11/2007)
Owen Martin is a 6’0”, 185-pound right-shot center playing for the Spokane Chiefs in the WHL. During the 2024/25 season, Martin posted 34 points (13 goals, 21 assists) in 39 games while averaging 18:21 TOI per game. He played in all situations — including 2:43/game on the power play and 2:34/game on the penalty kill — and finished with a +16 rating. His usage and versatility make him a trusted contributor in Spokane’s middle-six forward group.
Statistically, Martin profiles as a reliable two-way center with strong puck management and face-off capabilities. He won 54% of his draws (18 attempts/game), generated 2.2 scoring chances per game, but completed a below average 81% pass completion rate. He recorded 5.2 giveaways/game, indicating some inconsistency under pressure, but compensated with 3.7 takeaways/game and a strong transition presence (0.78 pre-shot passes/game).
Why Martin Should Be Drafted
1) Reliable 200-Foot Center with High IQ
Martin plays a well-rounded, intelligent game, contributing in all three zones. His usage on both special teams and in late-game situations reflects coaching trust. His ability to adapt to different roles — from shutdown defensive matchups to playmaking on the power play — will translate to the next level.
2) Strong Skating and Transition Game
Martin’s edge work and top-end speed allow him to separate from defenders in the neutral zone. He consistently gains controlled entries and makes smart possession decisions with the puck, choosing when to carry or distribute based on situational awareness.
3) Face-off and Puck Battle Competitiveness
He wins over half of his face-offs (54%) and is active in 13 puck battles per game. Though his 47% win rate tells us he needs to get stronger, the volume shows a willingness to engage — a foundation NHL teams can develop physically.
4) Versatile and Coachable with Good Anticipation
Martin’s anticipation (2.0 puck retrievals/game) and ability to read plays position him well on both sides of the puck. His consistent deployment in key moments and trust from Spokane’s staff speak to his maturity and reliability.
Why Martin May Not Be Drafted
1) Lacks High-End Offensive Flash
While he produces at a respectable clip, Martin’s 12% scoring chance conversion rate and 0.68 pre-shot passes/game point to limited creativity and scoring deception. He is more of a play extender than a playmaker or finisher.
2) Pass Accuracy and Forcing Puck Decisions
An 81% pass completion rate — both the data and in Neutral Zone viewings Martin occasionally forces plays — shown by his 5.2 giveaways/game. He’ll need to improve his puck patience and deception to be effective against NHL-level defensive structure.
3) Strength and Physicality Development Required
Martin’s puck battle win rate (47%) and moderate hit totals (0.86 hits given, 0.76 hits received/game) point to a need for increased lower-body strength and core stability. To project as a bottom-six NHL center, he’ll need to show more edge in contested areas.
4) Average Finishing Ability
Despite 3.9 shot attempts/game, Martin averages just 2.2 scoring chances/game and converts at an average 12%. Improving the fluidity of his release and shot deception will be key to increasing his offensive output as the competition level rises.
Projection & Recommendation
Projection: Third-line NHL center with two-way reliability, PK usage, and matchup capabilities
Development Track: One more season in the WHL as Spokane’s top-two centers, followed by 2 years in NCAA hockey focusing on strength development, pace under pressure, and enhancing offensive instincts. Followed by time in the AHL developing and crafting his role as a bottom-six center with match-up capabilities.
Draft Range: 4th to 6th Round
Verdict: Martin brings projectable traits as a responsible, versatile center with good hockey sense and work ethic. While he may not be a dynamic offensive force, his detail-oriented game, competitive spirit, and effectiveness in all situations provide a clear NHL foundation. With added physical maturity and offensive polish, Martin has the potential to become a valuable two-way depth center at the pro level.
Photo credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images