Buffalo Sabres defenseman Bowen Byram, currently a restricted free agent, finds himself at the center of considerable interest around the NHL as teams monitor his contract status. With his previous deal expired, Byram remains unsigned and is viewed as one of the top trade candidates at just 24 years old.
Following a career-best season where he recorded 38 points and held a plus-11 rating, the young blueliner finished his recent two-year contract worth $7.7 million. He averaged nearly 23 minutes on ice per game during the regular season, showcasing his value as a key defensive asset.
Insider Reports Suggest Potential Offer Sheet Could Arrive Soon
NHL insider Chris Johnston shared on his show that “strong whispers” are circulating about a possible offer sheet targeting Byram. While no formal deal has yet been signed, the buzz implies that a contract around the $7 million annual value is expected if an offer is made.
Johnston explained,
“The Byram situation in particular is kind of interesting. There are certainly whispers out there, strong whispers I’d say, of an offer sheet for Bowen Byram.”
He further noted,
“If he ends up signing an offer sheet, that’s basically somewhere on that $7 million mark where he’s likely to land.”
This potential offer sheet would place pressure on the Sabres’ front office to respond quickly, given the salary cap implications and the need to retain key players.
Buffalo Sabres’ Management Open but Firm on Player’s Future
The Sabres currently have $13.6 million available in salary cap space and two roster spots open, offering some financial flexibility. General manager Kevyn Adams addressed the unfolding situation recently, emphasizing the team’s commitment to retaining Byram if possible.
Adams stated,
“We’ll be matching and have the opportunity to have a player under contract who we think helps our team win.”
Nevertheless, he acknowledged that the organization remains receptive to trade inquiries but only if the compensation is substantial.
He added,
“I’ve maintained the same position that if there’s a deal out there that makes sense for us that we think is going to improve our roster, we’re open to it. If there’s not, we’re not in a situation where we’re looking to move him out or looking to move him out for futures and stuff like that.”
Adams concluded,
“For me, we want to help our team win hockey games, and he does that.”
Broader Trade Speculation Continues Amid NHL Contract Season
As Bowen Byram’s status remains uncertain, his situation reflects wider trade discussions occurring across the NHL. Other notable players, including Sidney Crosby and Connor Bedard, have recently fueled rumors involving contract extensions and potential trades in the league’s evolving landscape.
For the Sabres, the decisions made regarding Byram will impact their roster construction moving forward, especially given his rise as an impactful defenseman and the restricted free agent’s market dynamics.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many concussions has Bowen Byram had?
A. Each day that Bowen Byram wakes up without a headache feels like a blessing to him. The 22-year-old has experienced at least three concussions.
Q. How much does Bowen Byram make?
A. The defenseman, who is 6 feet 1 inch tall, recently finished a two-year contract worth $7.7 million, with a yearly cap of $3.85 million. He was chosen fourth overall by the Colorado Avalanche in the 2019 draft. Throughout his career, he has scored 33 goals and earned 110 points over 246 games, playing for both the Avalanche and the Sabres.