AP Source: Red Wings keep Helm, Marchenko, sign Nielsen
DETROIT (AP) The Detroit Red Wings were busy just before and after the start of NHL free agency.
Center Frans Nielsen agreed to a six-year, $31.5 million contract with the Detroit Red Wings, a person familiar with the move said Friday in the opening hour of free agency. The person said the franchise also agreed to deals to retain forward Darren Helm and defenseman Alexey Marchenko just before they would have been available on the market.
The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the agreements haven't been announced.
Nielsen averaged 51 points over the last three years with the New York Islanders. The 31-year-old Nielsen, who is from Denmark, has scored 119 goals and made 230 assists over his decade in the NHL.
Detroit retained Helm with a five-year contract, counting $3.85 million against the salary cap each season. The Red Wings are keeping Marchenko for two more seasons, taking $1.45 million off their cap each year.
Helm had 13 goals and 26 points last season. He has 72 goals and 90 assists since making his debut during the 2007-08 season.
Marchenko is coming off his first full season in the NHL. The Russian played in 66 games last season, scoring twice and adding nine assists.
