Darren Helm had a decent season last year for the Detroit Red Wings; the hope is to build upon that success and improve the offensive production.
The Detroit Red Wings did get a boost in offensive production from Darren Helm once he was inserted on a wing that had Dylan Larkin as his center. Helm another utility player who can play up and down the line-up where ever his services are needed. A swing player who can play center or either wing whenever its necessary.
To piggyback on that thought three years ago Darren Helm had taken 77 total faceoffs in 77 games played. Two years ago Helm was in the circle for 420 faceoffs. Last season Helm dug in for a total of 102 draws. His career faceoff percentage is 51% which isn’t all that bad.
Darren Helm expected to start on the wing again this season as long as Luke Glendening is healthy and still a Red Wing. If Detroit indeed decides to trade Glendening, Darren Helm could merely slide right into the fourth line center position.
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Darren Helm signed a 5-year-deal in the same offseason Abdelkader signed his 7-year-deal. Helm has a “No Trade Clause” for all five years of his contract which is no surprise knowing Ken Holland’s reputation. At times I think Ken Holland hands out “no trade clauses” & “no movement clauses” as birthday gifts. Darren Helm has 3 seasons remaining at 3.85 million per season left of that 5-year contract.
Darren Helm in 75 games last season recorded 13 goals and 18 assists for 31 points and was a plus 3. It was a bounce-back season for Helm whom the year before was plagued by injuries, limiting him to 50 games played and 17 total points.
The speedy Swiss army knife; Darren Helm, has the potential to upgrade both offensive categories. Helm could achieve 15 goals and 20 helpers for 35 points. That would be excellent 4th line production. Helm similar to Nielsen is a valuable penalty killer as well.