NHL Draft Diaries: Equipment Edition - Konsta Helenius

As the 2024 NHL Draft in Las Vegas approaches, the hockey world is buzzing with anticipation. One name that is beginning to stand out more among the top prospects is Konsta Helenius. A native of Ylöjärvi, Finland, Helenius has captured the attention of scouts and experts alike with his impressive performance in the Finnish professional hockey league, Liiga, playing for Jukurit. At just 17 years old, Helenius has demonstrated a level of skill and maturity beyond his years, making him a likely first-round pick, with some predictions placing him as high as third overall.

Helenius has been described as a "play driver," a term that signifies a player who can control the game and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. This attribute makes him a highly coveted asset for any NHL team looking to bolster its offensive capabilities. During the past season, Helenius recorded 14 goals and 22 assists, totaling 36 points in 51 games. While these numbers do not reflect a point-per-game pace, they are impressive given the context. Playing in Liiga, Helenius faced much older and more experienced competition, often going up against players in their late 20s and 30s. This environment is vastly different from the junior and college hockey ranks in North America, where prospects typically compete against players in a much younger age range.

Helenius’ ability to thrive in such a challenging league speaks volumes about his potential. His 36 points in 51 games highlight his offensive prowess and adaptability, essential qualities for a successful transition to the NHL. Teams eyeing Helenius will undoubtedly appreciate his capability to perform against mature competition, suggesting a smoother adjustment to the rigors of professional hockey in North America.

Beyond his on-ice performance, Helenius’ choice of equipment has also drawn attention. Throughout his season with Jukurit, he was outfitted in Bauer gear from head to toe, signaling a strong preference for the brand. His equipment included the Re-Akt 150 helmet, Vapor HyperLite gloves, and the Vapor HyperLite 2 models for both his stick and skates. This consistent choice of gear indicates a level of comfort and trust in Bauer's products, which could potentially lead to an official endorsement deal in the future.

Even on the international stage, where the Finnish national team mandates the use of Warrior gloves and helmets, Helenius stuck with his Bauer Vapor HyperLite 2 stick and skates. We’d say this is common but there have been examples of young Finnish prospects using Warrior sticks on international stages in their pre-draft year — most notably, Patrik Laine of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Equipment enthusiasts and brand loyalists will be keenly watching to see if Helenius continues to represent Bauer as he moves forward in his career.

While Helenius is expected to stay in Europe for at least another season, his eventual move to the NHL is eagerly anticipated. His offensive upside, combined with his play-driving capabilities and equipment preferences, make him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to strengthen their roster. As the draft unfolds, it will be exciting to see where Helenius lands and how he continues to develop his game.

This draft class is filled with talented players. Konsta Helenius stands out not only for his skills but also for his potential to become a key player in the NHL. His journey from Ylöjärvi to the professional ranks in North America will be one to watch, and fans can look forward to seeing how this young Finnish forward makes his mark on the hockey world.

Photo Credit: DeFodi Images