Konsta Helenius’ competitive spirit has been evident since childhood, where he frequently engaged in fierce battles with his older brother, Kalle, across various sports including hockey, soccer, badminton, and tennis. Despite often falling short against Kalle, Konsta’s determination to win and his resilience in facing tough challenges have shaped his tenacity and prepared him for professional hockey.
At just 18 years old, Helenius stands out as a forward prospect for the Buffalo Sabres, selected with the 14th overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. His early success in Finland’s top professional league, Liiga, playing for Jukurit, underscores his potential. Standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing 189 pounds, Helenius recorded impressive statistics with 36 points (14 goals, 22 assists) in 51 regular-season games, along with six points (two goals, four assists) in the playoffs. His standout performance continued at the 2024 IIHF World Championship, where he notably became the youngest player on the roster.
Buffalo’s general manager, Kevyn Adams, expressed admiration for Helenius’ competitiveness and skill set, emphasizing their belief in his smooth transition to the NHL. Adams highlighted Helenius’ unique blend of competitiveness and production at a young age, citing it as a rare quality that bodes well for his future with the Sabres.
Following his selection, Helenius signed a three-year entry-level contract with Buffalo on July 8, presenting him with multiple options for the upcoming season. He could choose to continue his development in Finland with Tappara or join the Sabres’ prospects in the American Hockey League’s Rochester Americans. Alternatively, if he impresses during training camp, he could secure a spot on Buffalo’s NHL roster.
Adams expressed optimism about Helenius’ readiness for North American hockey, noting the accelerated growth he has experienced through his professional and international experiences. The GM emphasized the importance of integrating Helenius into the Sabres’ lineup sooner rather than later, leveraging his maturity gained from playing against seasoned professionals in Finland.
Hockey has been a lifelong passion for Helenius, sparked by watching his father play in beer leagues and further fueled by his brother’s involvement in the sport. At 16, Helenius made a significant move from Ylojarvi to Mikkeli, where he lived independently to pursue his hockey career with Jukurit. This move not only immersed him in a more competitive environment but also fostered his personal growth, learning essential life skills such as cooking and managing household chores with the support of local friends.
Under the mentorship of former NHL forward Olli Jokinen, who coached him at Jukurit, Helenius gained valuable insights into NHL-level play, including the nuances of face-offs and physical battles against stronger opponents. His experiences playing against seasoned veterans in Liiga have prepared him well for the intensity and physicality of North American hockey, reinforcing the importance of strength and skill in every aspect of the game.
In his quest for improvement, Helenius draws inspiration from NHL stars like Sebastian Aho, William Nylander, and Auston Matthews, focusing on refining his skating, puck protection, and goal-scoring abilities. He is committed to enhancing every facet of his game, driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence on the ice.
Looking ahead, Helenius remains grounded and focused on his daily efforts, maintaining a disciplined approach to training and gameplay. His journey from a competitive sibling rivalry to becoming a top NHL prospect exemplifies his determination and resilience, qualities that position him well for a successful career in professional hockey with the Buffalo Sabres.
