Following a 14th consecutive season without playoff qualification, the Buffalo Sabres are positioned to implement substantial changes during the upcoming offseason. Among these changes could be the fate of defenseman Bowen Byram, who is set to enter restricted free agency this summer. The Sabres already possess a number of young, high-value players at the defense position, notably Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power, making Byram potentially an appealing trade asset as the team seeks to address other gaps on the roster.

Despite not fully realizing the high expectations that accompanied his selection as the fourth overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft by the Colorado Avalanche, Byram has displayed moments of brilliance when healthy. He concluded the past season with the Sabres, participating in all 82 games while contributing seven goals and 31 assists for a total of 38 points. As trade chatter regarding Byram resurfaces in anticipation of the offseason, it prompts an examination of six teams that might have a vested interest in acquiring him.

The New York Rangers have been actively attempting to reshape their defense throughout the 2024-25 season, but significant issues still abound, especially concerning offensive generation, puck movement, and player mobility on the blue line. Byram could prove to be the transformative player that the Rangers need, offering youth and the potential for growth. However, with five defensemen already under contract and two additional restricted free agents, K'Andre Miller and Zac Jones, roster space is limited. Nevertheless, the Rangers' ongoing struggles in defensive play and puck movement warrant consideration for potential changes, especially if they aim to return to playoff contention.

In contrast, the Los Angeles Kings appear to have a solid defensive unit already in place. However, after experiencing a fourth consecutive first-round exit at the hands of the Edmonton Oilers, the Kings recognize the necessity for improvement as they pursue deeper playoff runs. Given that veteran defenseman Drew Doughty is under contract for only two more seasons, adding Byram could offer the long-term potential necessary to develop a fresh focal point on defense, potentially easing the transition after Doughty's departure.

Meanwhile, the Detroit Red Wings continue to experience pressure as they grapple with persistent weaknesses on their roster, particularly in regard to defense and overall goal prevention during 5-on-5 play. While they boast standout young defensemen Moritz Seider and Simon Edvinsson, additional support is imperative if they hope to improve their overall performance. Byram’s capability for immediate impact combined with his potential for growth aligns well with the Red Wings’ youthful core. With the Red Wings ranking 26th and 24th in 5-on-5 goals scored percentage and expected goals share respectively, integrating Byram could enhance both statistical areas as they strive to end their postseason drought.

On the topic of the Chicago Blackhawks, the team is amid a rebuilding phase that has yet to yield significant success. The 2024-25 season demonstrated a lack of improvement, as they secured even fewer victories in the second year of Connor Bedard’s career than they did during their previous tanking efforts. Despite assembling young talent and prospects, including Kevin Korchinski and Artyom Levshunov, the Blackhawks require established players to effectively nurture their developing roster. Although Byram has not consistently met the expectations that surrounded his NHL debut, he remains a strong addition for a youthful Blackhawks squad that continues searching for on-ice coherence.

Moreover, the Columbus Blue Jackets present a compelling opportunity as a prospective destination for Byram. The team is poised to aggressively explore upgrades this offseason, with strong indications that they might lose veteran defenseman Ivan Provorov to free agency. With ample salary cap space at their disposal and a wealth of trade assets, including two available first-round picks, the Blue Jackets are well-positioned to pursue a trade for Byram. After taking significant strides this season and narrowly missing playoff contention, they are likely motivated to enhance their roster.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are also stepping into a transitional state, although the depth of their rebuild remains uncertain. General manager Kyle Dubas remains committed to fielding a competitive team while Sidney Crosby is still an active player, with Crosby currently contracted for two additional seasons. As the Penguins navigate this ambiguity, the need for defensive improvement is paramount, especially with Kris Letang appearing to lose effectiveness and Erik Karlsson likely facing an impending trade. The Penguins could benefit from a mid-20s, mobile defenseman like Byram, who could contribute offensively and stabilize the blue line as the team plots its next moves.