Darren Helm ‘extremely excited’ to join Cup-contending Colorado Avalanche

Darren Helm was a rookie when the Detroit Red Wings won the Stanley Cup in 2008. He’s since spent the last 13 years chasing another one in the Motor City.

But after a long career spent in Detroit, Helm comes to Colorado in hopes of capturing the second Cup of his career, and the first for the Avalanche in 20 years.

“That’s something I’m very excited for,” Helm said of joining a Cup-contending Colorado team. “I’m really looking forward to it and be a part of this team and see what happens.”

Helm met with the Denver media Wednesday morning for the first time since he signed with the Avs on July 29. He reminisced about his long 14-year career with the Red Wings, while also imparting his excitement about coming to Colorado.

“It’s a little bit of mixed emotions. I’ve been (in Detroit) for a long time, I raised a family here,” Helm said. “When I heard the news, I was extremely excited. Really looking forward to playing with the Avs and being on a contending team.”