Darren Helm, you could say, is used to returning from injury. Accustomed to it? No, it’s not something that he chooses to look at with that sort of approach.

Helm (separated shoulder) will see action for the first time since Nov. 21 as the Detroit Red Wings play host to the Calgary Flames on Wednesday at Little Caesars Arena, as he returns from his latest serious bout with injury.

“Anytime you miss any time or period away from the game you want to get back as soon as you can, so six weeks, I’m excited to get back out there,” Helm said.

On thing he’s learned from his sojourns in sick bay is to not go for the gold in his first game back.

“It’s just about keeping the game simple, not trying to do too much,” Helm said. “Make the easy plays and not force anything.”

Getting back into the flow is perhaps the most difficult challenge a player faces after lengthy downtime on the sidelines.

“The speed of the game,” Helm said. “Things are moving a lot quicker in the game as opposed to practice and just being out there by yourself. The physical part of the game, too, is going to get a little harder, tiring, than just up and down the ice.”

Wings coach Jeff Blashill has penciled Helm in on a line with Luke Glendening and Andreas Athanasiou.

“I was pretty excited to get an opportunity to play with those two guys,” Helm said. “I love playing with Glenny. AA is a great player, lot of speed and skill. I hope we can find some early chemistry and play well.”

Blashill hopes that trio will be able to wheel it and put the other team on their heels.

“They all play fast, they all have good north games that way,” Blashill said. “We’re hoping that can be a good line tonight. Part of it is it allows you to ease him into it. He’s real familiar with Glenny. Those two get along very well. They have good chemistry together on and off the ice. Hopefully, it can be a good line.”

Lash Up
Veteran defenseman Brian Lashoff was recalled from AHL Grand Rapids for the second time this season, but just like his last trip to Detroit, al he’ll get it appears is a good seat to watch the game.

With the Wings down to six healthy defenseman, Lashoff is in the show as an insurance policy to cover the possibility of further mishaps.

“Lashoff won’t play,” Blashill confirmed.

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