After a 14th consecutive non-playoff season, the Buffalo Sabres are positioned to make significant changes this offseason. One potential change on the horizon could involve defenseman Bowen Byram. As a restricted free agent this summer, Byram plays a position where the Sabres already have a number of financially committed young players, including Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power, which may make him a viable trade asset as the team seeks to address other needs on the roster.

Byram, selected by the Colorado Avalanche with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, has not yet reached the star level many anticipated. However, he has displayed flashes of his potential when healthy, proving to be a formidable offensive-minded defenseman whose prime years are likely just beginning. In the recent season, he participated in all 82 games, tallying seven goals and 31 assists for a total of 38 points. His name has emerged in trade discussions leading up to and during the 2024-25 season, and this trend is expected to continue as the offseason approaches. With that context in mind, several teams might express interest in Byram or appear to be sensible landing spots.

The New York Rangers devoted much of the 2024-25 season to reshaping their defense, yet significant issues remain, particularly regarding offensive generation and puck-moving capabilities. Byram could provide the Rangers with the type of player they need to enhance their defensive unit, bringing with him untapped potential due to his youth. However, the Rangers are currently managing five defensemen under contract for the upcoming season, accompanied by two restricted free agents, K'Andre Miller and Zac Jones, leaving limited roster flexibility. Despite this, the necessity for a change to improve their defensive zone play remains evident, especially as the team aims for a return to playoff contention.

Conversely, the Los Angeles Kings may not require immediate defensive assistance, as they rank among the top defensive teams in the league. However, after experiencing a fourth consecutive first-round exit to the Edmonton Oilers, it becomes apparent that further advancements are necessary to achieve their postseason aspirations. Additionally, the future of veteran defenseman Drew Doughty is uncertain, given he is under contract for only two more seasons. Byram possesses the potential to emerge as a top-pairing defenseman, possibly succeeding Doughty and establishing himself as a key figure on the Kings' defense moving forward.

In the Detroit Red Wings organization, general manager Steve Yzerman may be feeling pressure to address the team's ongoing weaknesses, particularly on the defensive front and in their ability to prevent goals during 5-on-5 play. While young talents Moritz Seider and Simon Edvinsson show promise, they are insufficient alone to elevate the team's defensive capabilities. Byram would represent an immediate improvement and long-term asset, capable of complementing the existing young core. With the Red Wings ranking 26th and 24th in 5-on-5 goals scored percentage and expected goals share, respectively, Byram's addition could play a crucial role in enhancing their performance in these areas.

The Chicago Blackhawks are still in the midst of a rebuilding phase, which has not yielded significant success thus far. The recent season saw the team achieve fewer victories in Connor Bedard's second year compared to the one in which they intentionally sought to acquire him. While there are a number of young prospects, particularly on defense, the team needs to incorporate established players with proven NHL experience to support development. Despite not consistently meeting pre-draft expectations, Byram remains a competent NHL defenseman who could contribute positively to a young Blackhawks lineup still searching for direction.

The Columbus Blue Jackets are expected to be one of the most proactive teams during the upcoming offseason, and Byram stands out as an excellent trade candidate. The need to enhance their defense is clear, especially with the potential departure of veteran Ivan Provorov in free agency. Coupled with ample salary cap space and a stockpile of trade assets, including two first-round picks, general manager Don Waddell may find Byram to be an ideal fit as the Blue Jackets seek to contend for a playoff position after narrowly missing the Eastern Conference postseason this past year.

Lastly, the Pittsburgh Penguins are embarking on their own rebuilding journey. The degree and duration of this process remains uncertain, as general manager Kyle Dubas has expressed a desire to remain competitive and return to the playoffs during Sidney Crosby's tenure. With Crosby under contract for two more seasons, the Penguins could potentially target Byram to boost their defensive unit, especially as veterans Kris Letang and Erik Karlsson may face changes in their status. The Penguins possess salary cap flexibility and a wealth of draft picks, which could make a deal involving Byram appealing to the Sabres.