Helm Injured, Out Indefinitely

Darren Helm went to the locker room after being checked into the boards early in the first period and did not return. During his post game press conference, Jeff Blashill announced that Helm will be out indefinitely with an upper body injury. Helm has a history of shoulder injuries but we don’t know the specifics yet.

Darren Helm has one goal and five assists through 20 games this season. Helm had been playing on the top line with Anthony Mantha and Dylan Larkin.  Many would rather see someone with more offensive upside on the top line and that will happen but unfortunately due to injury. Helm’s speed and forechecking ability could be replaced by someone like Tyler Bertuzzi who’s coming off a 2 assist game in today’s 3-2 overtime win against New Jersey.

Helm is now one one three veterans injured along with Thomas Vanek and Jonathan Ericsson, but Vanek may be closing in on a return as he did travel with the Wings as heard during the Fox Sports-Detroit broadcast.

The Wings play next on Wednesday, November 21st against Boston, so a recall may not be made if Thomas Vanek is slated to return for that game or the Red Wings following game on Friday, November 23rd against Washington.