Buffalo, NY – Uncertainty surrounding one of the Buffalo Sabres` key young assets has been resolved. The team has officially come to terms with defenceman Bowen Byram on a new contract, ensuring his presence on the blueline for the next two seasons. The agreement, finalized Monday evening, carries a total value of $12.5 million, translating to an average annual value (AAV) of $6.25 million against the salary cap.
This signing is particularly noteworthy as it allows both parties to bypass an arbitration hearing, a process that can sometimes introduce friction into contract negotiations. Instead, the Sabres and Byram`s camp found common ground, reaching a mutually agreeable deal ahead of the scheduled hearing.
Byram, 24, joined the Sabres via trade from the Colorado Avalanche on March 6, 2024. His arrival was anticipated to bolster the team`s defence with his offensive capabilities and strong skating. In the time since the trade and through the conclusion of the most recent season, Byram played a significant role, demonstrating flashes of the potential that made him the fourth overall selection in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft.
During the previous season, Byram participated in a full 82-game schedule, recording 38 points from seven goals and 31 assists across his time with both Colorado and Buffalo. His career totals now stand at 110 points (33 goals, 77 assists) over 246 NHL games. A notable achievement in his young career includes being a member of the Colorado Avalanche team that captured the Stanley Cup in 2022.
The two-year term of this contract provides the Sabres with cost certainty on a significant defensive piece while Byram receives a substantial increase in salary from his previous two-year, $7.7 million deal. For Byram, this agreement serves as a `bridge` contract, positioning him to potentially earn a long-term, higher-value deal at its conclusion, assuming continued development and performance. For the Sabres, it`s an opportunity to assess his role and impact over a defined period before committing to a potentially larger, longer extension.
Securing Byram was a priority for the Sabres` management as they continue to shape a competitive roster. The $6.25 million AAV reflects the market value for a defenceman with his pedigree, age, and potential. It represents a significant investment in a player acquired relatively recently, signaling the organization`s belief in his fit within their long-term plans.
With the contract now resolved, both Byram and the Buffalo Sabres can look ahead to the upcoming season without the distraction of ongoing negotiations or arbitration proceedings. The focus shifts entirely to on-ice performance and Byram`s continued integration and impact on the team`s defensive unit as they strive for improvement.
Ellis Thorne 
Percy Harlow