Dwight Helminen

Dwight Helminen (born June 22, 1983 in Hancock, Michigan) is an American professional ice hockey center currently playing with the Pelicans of the SM-liiga. His brother Lars played with Linz EHC of the EBEL.

Playing career
Helminen was drafted 244th overall in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft by the Edmonton Oilers. Dwight played junior hockey for the U.S. Junior National Team in the USHL and college hockey at the University of Michigan for the Michigan Wolverines. On March 3, 2004, the New York Rangers acquired his rights from the Oilers along with a 2004 second round draft choice and Stephen Valiquette in exchange for Petr Nedved and Jussi Markkanen.

Since turning professional, he has played for the Charlotte Checkers in the ECHL and the Hartford Wolf Pack in the AHL, before signing with JYP Jyväskylä in the Finnish SM-liiga in 2007.

Dwight signed a one-year contract with the Carolina Hurricanes on July 3, 2008. He was then assigned to Hurricanes affiliate, the Albany River Rats of the AHL. Helminen made his NHL debut in the 2008-09 season after an injury to Brandon Sutter. He played in 23 regular season games by seasons end with the Hurricanes, as well as one playoff game.

On July 16, 2009, Helminen signed a one-year contract with the San Jose Sharks.

On February 11, 2010, Helminen scored his first goal with the San Jose Sharks, against the Detroit Red Wings.

On April 22, 2010, Helminen scored a goal against the Colorado Avalanche, in the Sharks' first-round playoff series.

Awards and achievements

 * 2002–03 CCHA - All-Tournament Team
 * 2003–04 CCHA - Best Defensive Forward