Following a fourteenth consecutive non-playoff season, the Buffalo Sabres are poised to implement significant changes during the upcoming offseason. Among the players subject to speculation is defenseman Bowen Byram. As a restricted free agent this summer, Byram occupies a position where the Sabres already have notable young talent, including Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power. This abundance of players in the same role may make Byram a viable trade asset as the Sabres aim to address other deficiencies in their roster.

Byram, selected fourth overall by the Colorado Avalanche in the 2019 NHL Draft, has not consistently realized the star potential anticipated upon his entry to the league. However, he has exhibited moments of brilliance, particularly when healthy, showcasing his capabilities as a formidable offensive defenseman. In the past season, he played in all 82 games, notching seven goals and 31 assists for a total of 38 points. His name has already surfaced in trade discussions leading up to the deadline during the 2024-25 season, indicating ongoing interest as the offseason approaches. This article will highlight six teams that may show interest in acquiring him, given their respective needs and Byram's skill set.

The New York Rangers have been actively working on reshaping their defense throughout the 2024-25 season, yet they still face challenges in generating offensive play and maintaining mobility on the blue line. Byram could represent a player capable of enhancing their defense while potentially providing untapped potential as a young asset. Nonetheless, the Rangers currently have five defensemen under contract, along with restricted free agents K'Andre Miller and Zac Jones, which may limit their options for roster alterations. However, given their recent struggles in the defensive zone and puck movement, pursuing a player of Byram's caliber could be instrumental in their quest to return to playoff contention.

The Los Angeles Kings, despite experiencing a strong defensive performance last season, find themselves in need of further improvement following a fourth consecutive first-round exit against the Edmonton Oilers. While they have a solid mix of veteran and young players on the blue line, the departure of veteran defenseman Drew Doughty, who has only two seasons remaining on his contract, poses a crucial consideration for the team's long-term plans. The Kings may see Byram as a potential top-pairing defenseman who could succeed Doughty and bolster their defensive core in the years to come.

In Detroit, general manager Steve Yzerman is under increasing pressure to address the team's persistent weaknesses, particularly on defense and in stopping goals during 5-on-5 play. The presence of promising young defensemen Moritz Seider and Simon Edvinsson offers hope, but they require additional support to bolster their defensive unit. Byram is a suitable candidate who could provide immediate benefits while also growing alongside the team's evolving young core. With the Red Wings ranking low in 5-on-5 goals and expected goals share, his addition could significantly impact their offensive struggles and playoff aspirations. However, acquiring Byram from a divisional rival such as the Sabres raises questions about the terms of a potential trade.

The Chicago Blackhawks' rebuilding efforts have yet to bear fruit, highlighted by a disappointing 2024-25 season that saw the team struggle even with the presence of young star Connor Bedard. With a roster featuring a mix of young prospects, including defensemen Kevin Korchinski and Artyom Levshunov, the Blackhawks face the challenge of integrating experienced players who can contribute while their young prospects develop. Byram, despite not yet fully meeting collegiate expectations, remains a strong acquisition that could stabilize the foundation of this youthful roster as it seeks direction and growth in the coming years.

Meanwhile, the Columbus Blue Jackets stand out as one of the most aggressive teams heading into the offseason, with Byram potentially fitting well into their plans. They are looking to enhance their defense and may potentially lose veteran Ivan Provorov in free agency. Possessing considerable salary cap space and an array of trade assets, including two first-round picks, the Blue Jackets have the prerequisites to execute a trade that could benefit their playoff ambitions after narrowly missing out on postseason contention the previous season.

The Pittsburgh Penguins find themselves at a crossroads as they embark on a rebuilding phase, the depth and duration of which remain unclear. General manager Kyle Dubas has expressed intentions to remain competitive and secure a playoff berth while superstar Sidney Crosby remains active. With Crosby under contract for two more seasons, it is uncertain whether the Penguins' approach will mirror that of the Washington Capitals' turnaround or if they will undergo a more extensive rebuilding process. Regardless, Byram could fill a considerable gap in their defensive lineup at this crucial juncture, especially given Kris Letang's decline and the anticipated trade of Erik Karlsson. With substantial salary cap flexibility and a wealth of draft picks, the Penguins may present a compelling offer to the Sabres in exchange for Byram.