Bryan Helmer has officially ended his playing career. Helmer had 26 points and 135 penalty minutes in 146 NHL games, but where he really made his mark was in the AHL. Helmer is the AHL's all-time career assists and points leader among defensemen. He also won the Calder Cup three times and is the AHL's all-time leader in playoff games with 159. Although he's closing a chapter in his hockey career, he doesn't plan on slowing down. Helmer has accepted an assistant coaching job with the OHL Peterborough Petes.

Bryan Helmer has signed with the AHL Springfield Falcons. Helmer had difficulty finding work in the AHL during the lockout, but now that it's coming to an end, it looks like he'll be able to extend his playing career. Helmer is 40 years old and the veteran of 146 NHL games. He'll be a nice addition to the Falcons, but their NHL affiliate, the Columbus Blue Jackets, aren't likely to call him up at any point during the shortened season.

Bryan Helmer is still an unrestricted free agent and looking for a team. Helmer is 40 years old and played with the AHL Oklahoma City Barons last season. With the NHL locked out, dozens of the league's best players have signed with European clubs and about a hundred NHL-caliber youngsters have taken refuge in the AHL. That makes it hard for a guy like Helmer to find an opportunity to extend his career.