The Buffalo Sabres have confirmed a two-year contract extension with defenseman Bowen Byram, locking him in through the 2026-27 season with an average annual value of $6.25 million. This agreement closes the chapter on one of the prominent remaining restricted free agents ahead of the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/hockey/nhl/”>NHL calendar.
Details of Byram’s New Contract and Arbitration Background
Byram’s new deal, averaging $6.25 million per year, will expire when he turns 26, after which he will become an unrestricted free agent. The extension follows the Sabres’ decision to file for team-elected arbitration just over a week prior, signaling their intent to retain the promising defender. This contract replaces Byram’s previous two-year, $3.85 million bridge deal, which had a lower cap hit and raised speculation about potential trade opportunities for the club.
Byram’s Performance Growth and Impact Since Joining Buffalo
The 24-year-old defenseman completed what many consider his best NHL season yet, appearing in all 82 games. Byram recorded seven goals and a career-high 31 assists, totaling 38 points, with a +11 plus/minus rating. He also averaged 22 minutes and 42 seconds of ice time per game, statistics that reflect his growing importance on the blue line.
Byram joined the Sabres in March 2024 after being traded by the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for Casey Mittelstadt. Once a top prospect in the Avalanche system, his development was delayed by injuries early on, but his progress in Buffalo has showcased his capability as a reliable two-way defenseman. Before joining the Sabres, Byram accumulated 33 goals and 77 assists over 246 NHL games, with a career plus/minus of +26. His postseason experience includes 27 Stanley Cup Playoff games with 12 assists, all during his time with Colorado.
Implications for the Sabres’ Roster and Salary Cap
With Byram secured for the near future, the Sabres now project around $7.4 million in available salary cap space for the 2025-26 season. This extension reflects the team’s commitment to building around their young core and maximizing the potential of a player who overcame early concerns about his durability and consistency. Buffalo’s confidence in Byram suggests he will be a key defensive piece moving forward.
“We have signed defenseman Bowen Byram to a two-year contract with an AAV of $6.25 million.” — Buffalo Sabres Official Announcement
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many concussions has Bowen Byram had?
A. During his NHL career, he experienced three concussions and a lower-body injury, causing him to sit out half of the 2022-23 season. Despite this, completing nearly two entire seasons consecutively shows positive signs for his health. Byram will be 24 years old at the start of the 2025-26 season, aligning him with the Flyers’ future goals.
Q. How much does Bowen Byram make?
A. Over his career, he has scored 33 goals and made 77 assists, totaling 110 points in 246 games. However, if he’s expecting to earn $9 million each year, some teams might be discouraged by his statistical performance.