There was one question that seemed to dominate the Buffalo Sabres offseason. It also was not answered the way many in the fanbase thought it should be. Bowen Byram was on the trade block and the subject of much speculation towards the end of last year and through all of free agency.
Despite taking many calls about the defenseman, the Sabres decided to bring the restricted free agent back by signing him a two-year extension. It seems as though rumors continue to swirl despite the re-signing.
He had a career best in points (38) and blocks (116) last season. It did not help the Sabres get over the hump and get to the postseason for their first time in almost two decades.
He could continue to develop during his time on the ice to become a top defenseman for the Sabres. However, if the Sabres do what has been common in the postseason drought in the opening parts of the season, Byram could once again be the subject of rumors and trade speculation.
It is a common theme in Buffalo for a player who has skills and ability to get moved, adding depth to a team looking to make the postseason. In Byram's case, the Sabres have dealt with trade speculation throughout his time playing on the ice at the KeyBank Center.
Defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen and forward Jeff Skinner were key parts of attempts at Sabres rebuilds, but became the subject of rumors before both left Buffalo as the organization restarted again.
The last two years, the Sabres have not started the month of October with a winning record. To calm Sabres fans and their nerves, it would be wise to try and get out of the gate hot.
Byram himself could improve his chances to stick with the Sabres if he provides a needed spark when on the ice. He also had a career high for his plus/minus at +11 last season.
He could follow in the footsteps of a player like center Peyton Krebs. Last offseason, Krebs himself was the subject of much trade speculation. He, however, provided depth for the Sabres, having a career high in points (28) and faceoff percentage (49%). He now should be a part of the Sabres lineup for next season.
So, Byram can follow in Krebs skates, or join a long line of players who are dealt after they either have an off month or the Sabres falter. Time will tell for an organization looking to get back to the postseason.