The Buffalo Sabres signing defenseman Bowen Byram to a two-year, $12.5 million extension earlier this month was thought to have all but eliminated the chances of his being moved until at least the beginning of next season, but according to the Fourth Period, the 24-year-old blueliner continues to be the most sought-after commodity on the summer trade market, with as many as 10 teams reportedly linked to the Stanley Cup winner.
Sabres GM Kevyn Adams was reportedly was not happy with the offers being made for Byram leading into and following the NHL Draft, which were likely more future prospect-and-draft pick based, similar to what Montreal sent to the NY Islanders for Noah Dobson (a pair of 2025 first-rounders and forward Emil Heineman). The club choose salary arbitration to block the possibility of an offer sheet.
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The Sabres are reportedly looking to make a hockey deal for Byram, preferably that includes a top-six forward. An interested club may prefer to trade for a player under contract with cost certainty, but the blueliner being represented by agent Darren Ferris – someone who normally advocates for a player to head to free agency – could lower the possibility of Adams getting what he is looking for in a trade.
Defenseman Mattias Samuelsson reportedly is another player who is rumored to be available. The 25-year-old has five years remaining on a seven-year deal with a $4.285 million AAV, but with the re-signing of Byram – who will likely partner with Rasmus Dahlin if he is not dealt – and newly acquired Michael Kesselring potentially playing alongside Owen Power, the Sabres may be willing to deal him for the right price.
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