DETROIT – Darren Helm's ailing back passed a major test this weekend, as the Detroit Red Wings center reported no issues following a two-game conditioning stint with the Grand Rapids Griffins.

Helm, who has appeared in only one game in the past 18 months due to a variety of injuries, will make his season debut Saturday against the New York Rangers at Joe Louis Arena, general manager Ken Holland said.

Holland said he received a text message from Helm on Sunday reporting good news.

“He said the back felt great, conditioning and timing have a little ways to go,’’ Holland said. “From a health standpoint, everything is well and he’s looking forward to being in the lineup this weekend.’’

Right wing Patrick Eaves (sprained knee and ankle) also will be activated off of long-term injured reserve by Saturday, forcing the Red Wings to clear two roster spots and some salary-cap space.

Fourth-line center Luke Glendening will be reassigned to the Griffins, but the Red Wings will need to trim one more player.

Jordin Tootoo appears to be the most susceptible.

The Red Wings had no luck moving Tootoo over the summer. Nashville, his former club, was among the teams they contacted.

If they can’t deal Tootoo for a draft pick or prospect this week, he might be waived. If he is waived and claimed, his entire $1.9 million salary cap hit (for this season and next season) would come off the books. If he clears and is assigned to Grand Rapids, the Red Wings would get only $925,000 in cap relief under the new collective bargaining agreement that makes it more difficult to bury veterans in the minors.

Waiving right wing Mikael Samuelsson is not viable option because the club would receive only $100,000 in cap relief if he went unclaimed. That's because he was 35 when he signed his two-year deal on July 1, 2012.

Helm will join the Red Wings for Monday's morning skate at Joe Louis Arena and will continue practicing with the club this week. Helm and Eaves aren't eligible to come off long-term IR until Thursday, since it requires a minimum 24-day stay.