The Philadelphia Flyers may once again set their sights on acquiring Buffalo Sabres defenseman Bowen Byram, according to the latest swirl of NHL trade rumors.
After an unsuccessful attempt in early 2024 to trade Cutter Gauthier for Byram—then with the Colorado Avalanche—the Flyers could be preparing to revisit that pursuit as Byram’s future in Buffalo becomes increasingly uncertain.
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Initially, Philadelphia offered Gauthier in a one-for-one swap for Byram, but Colorado reportedly demanded more in return.
Gauthier was later traded to Anaheim for Jamie Drysdale and a second-round pick. Now with Buffalo, Byram—23 and a pending restricted free agent—is reportedly unhappy with his current situation, seeking a more prominent role, particularly on the power play. That opportunity remains limited behind Sabres star defenseman Rasmus Dahlin.
According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, Byram’s name was “hot” during discussions at the NHL Scouting Combine.
Sabres GM Kevyn Adams is said to be doing his due diligence as the team contemplates reshaping a roster that continues to underperform. Byram, who won a Stanley Cup with Colorado, may welcome a change of scenery where he can play a bigger role, especially on special teams.
The Flyers, meanwhile, are dealing with their own RFA situation involving defenseman Cam York, one of two remaining unsigned restricted free agents on the team.
While York has developed into a reliable defensive presence, he has yet to flourish offensively—something Buffalo may see as an opportunity, given their need for a stabilizing partner alongside Dahlin or Owen Power. Notably, the Sabres lack right-shot defensemen, making a potential swap even more intriguing.
Adding Byram would bolster a Flyers blue line that has lacked a true power play quarterback. With both teams facing roster and cap decisions this summer, a deal involving York and Byram could present a mutually beneficial solution—providing Buffalo with a steady left-shot while giving Byram a fresh start in a system that might better utilize his offensive upside.
As offseason talks heat up, all eyes will be on GM Danny Briere and Kevyn Adams, with Byram emerging as one of the most talked-about names heading into a pivotal summer for both franchises.
