In a move that solidifies their defensive core and avoids potential off-season drama, the Buffalo Sabres have officially re-signed restricted free agent defenseman Bowen Byram.
Late Monday night, the Sabres and Byram agreed to a two-year contract worth $12.5 million, carrying an annual average value (AAV) of $6.25 million through the 2026-27 season. This agreement prevents the need for a salary arbitration hearing, a process the club had elected earlier this month. While contract negotiations between RFAs and teams can often feel like a high-stakes poker game with the arbitration deadline looming, reaching a voluntary agreement is typically preferred by both parties.
As an RFA, Byram`s negotiating rights were held by Buffalo, granting the team control over his future. However, without a contract, the possibility of a trade or even an offer sheet from another team loomed, potentially complicating the Sabres` off-season plans. Securing him on a new deal removes that uncertainty and locks in a valuable asset.
The 24-year-old blueliner has quickly become an important piece for the Sabres` defense since arriving in Buffalo. He was acquired from the Colorado Avalanche at the 2024 trade deadline in exchange for forward Casey Mittelstadt, a trade that marked a significant shift for both clubs. Byram just completed his first full season in Buffalo, and it proved to be a notable one.
It was a career year for Byram, who demonstrated durability and offensive upside by playing all 82 games. During the 2024-25 season, he posted personal bests in assists (31), points (38), and contributed defensively with 116 blocked shots. His performance indicated he is finding his stride and becoming a reliable top-four defenseman in the league.
Before joining the Sabres, Byram gained valuable experience and hoisted hockey`s ultimate prize. He was part of the Colorado Avalanche`s 2022 Stanley Cup championship squad, contributing 9 points during their successful playoff run. Since making his NHL debut in 2021, he has accumulated a total of 33 goals and 89 assists over 273 career regular-season and playoff games.
This two-year contract can be viewed as a `bridge` deal, a common structure for young players establishing themselves before potentially signing a long-term, high-value contract. It gives Byram the opportunity to continue developing and prove his long-term value over the next two seasons while providing the Sabres with cost certainty on a key defenseman as they continue their push to become a competitive team in the Eastern Conference.
Ultimately, securing Bowen Byram was a clear priority for the Sabres` front office. This agreement ensures he remains a cornerstone on their blue line, providing youth, skill, and proven playoff experience as the team looks to build towards breaking their lengthy playoff drought and contending for a championship.
