Following a 14th consecutive season without a playoff appearance, the Buffalo Sabres are expected to implement significant changes during the offseason. One area that may see transformation includes the future of defenseman Bowen Byram, who is set to become a restricted free agent this summer. Byram plays a position where the Sabres already have a notable lineup of young, high-paid players, such as Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power, and could serve as an effective trade asset while addressing other needs within the roster. While Byram has yet to meet the star potential anticipated when he was selected as the No. 4 overall pick by the Colorado Avalanche in the 2019 NHL Draft, he has demonstrated flashes of brilliance when healthy, positioning himself as a proficient offensive defenseman during his career. In the most recent season, Byram participated in all 82 games, achieving seven goals alongside 31 assists, totaling 38 points. As trade discussions surface once again ahead of the offseason, it is worth exploring six teams that may show interest in acquiring him.

The New York Rangers had been striving to revamp their defensive unit throughout the 2024-25 season, yet significant gaps in their performance remain evident. One persistent issue is their defense's ability to generate offense and maintain puck mobility. Byram could provide the needed shift for their defensive lineup, infusing youth and untapped potential into the group. However, the Rangers currently have five defensemen already signed for the upcoming season, with two restricted free agents, K'Andre Miller and Zac Jones, complicating the roster's dynamics. Nevertheless, the persistent issues surrounding their defensive play—particularly concerning movement through the neutral zone—require urgent attention. If the Rangers aim to return to the playoffs and be contenders for the Stanley Cup, they must pursue substantial alterations to their defense.

In the short term, the Los Angeles Kings do not find themselves in dire need of defensive upgrades; they recently established themselves as one of the league's top defensive teams and possess a commendable mix of both young and veteran players in their ranks. Despite this strength, the Kings suffered their fourth consecutive first-round exit at the hands of the Edmonton Oilers, signifying that further growth is necessary to progress in the playoffs. Considering future preparations, veteran defenseman Drew Doughty has only two years left on his contract, highlighting the need for potential long-term replacements like Byram. Given his youth and skill set, Byram could emerge as a premier defenseman and eventually assume a leadership role in the Kings’ defensive core.

Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman may soon feel pressure to address significant weaknesses on the team, particularly their defensive performance and overall ability to control play during 5-on-5 situations. While the team boasts promising young defensemen Moritz Seider and Simon Edvinsson, their presence alone is insufficient to shore up the defensive gaps. Byram's addition could provide both immediate improvements and long-term growth potential alongside their developing core. The Red Wings ranked 26th and 24th in important metrics such as 5-on-5 goals scored percentage and expected goals share during the previous season, emphasizing the need for enhanced offensive production. Byram could play a key role in addressing these concerns. Additionally, with Seider as the only defenseman under contract beyond the 2025-26 season, acquiring Byram not only addresses urgent needs but offers long-term stability as well.

The Chicago Blackhawks are amidst a rebuilding phase that has yet to yield tangible success following their efforts to acquire star player Connor Bedard. Their performance during the 2024-25 season was disappointing, culminating in fewer wins than the prior year when they aimed to secure Bedard through strategic losses. The franchise possesses a wealth of young prospects, particularly on defense, with players like Kevin Korchinski and Artyom Levshunov emerging as key figures. However, merely deploying a lineup of young talents is insufficient for achieving competitive results. The inclusion of established players like Byram helps bridge the gap between the prospect phase and NHL competition expectations, providing invaluable experience and stability to a team still charting its path.

The Columbus Blue Jackets may take an aggressive approach this offseason, positioning themselves as an attractive destination for Byram. Already facing potential departures of veteran defenseman Ivan Provorov in free agency, the Blue Jackets lack sufficient defensive depth. Available salary cap space will allow them significant flexibility in the marketplace. They also possess a substantial pool of trade assets, including multiple first-round picks, which general manager Don Waddell has indicated could be utilized. With the team showing signs of growth and narrowly missing out on a playoff spot during the past season, acquiring a talent like Byram may further strengthen their bid for postseason contention.

As the Pittsburgh Penguins embark on a rebuilding journey, the extent and timeline of this transition remain uncertain. General manager Kyle Dubas emphasizes a desire for a swift return to competitive play while Sidney Crosby remains on the roster for at least two more seasons. Whether this is a temporary adjustment akin to the Washington Capitals’ quick turnaround or a more extensive rebuild period remains to be seen. That said, if the Penguins are eyeing a quicker resurgence, Byram may stand out as a strategic target. With existing defensemen such as Kris Letang showing signs of decline and Erik Karlsson likely to be traded, acquiring a mid-20s, puck-moving defenseman like Byram could be pivotal for both offensive support and a revitalized defensive structure. They also possess notable salary cap flexibility and a plethora of draft picks, providing compelling options for a potential trade with the Sabres.