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Ryan Hall
June 30, 2025  (4:00 PM)

Buffalo Sabres defenseman Bowen Byram #nhl #rangers #sabres

Photo credit: NHL.com

New York Rangers insider Johnny Lazarus has linked the organization to 24-year-old defenseman restricted free agent Bowen Byram from the Buffalo Sabres as the team continues to evaluate their defense.

Lazarus feels that the Rangers are highly interested in acquiring the defenseman as general manager Chris Drury seeks out a major change with his current line up.

Byram exactly what the Rangers are looking for

Byram Was drafted in 2019 by the Colorado Avalanche, first round, 4th pick overall. He played all 82 games with the Sabres and scoring seven goals, with 31 assists for 38 points and was a + 11. He also played 22 minutes and 42 seconds of average ice time.

Adding a player like Byram to the Rangers is exactly what the team is needing because defensive play has been one of their weak spots especially this year.

He has just completed a two-year $3.85 million contract and could be an opportunity for the Rangers to send an offer sheet his way as they still possessed their 2026 first round pick and could use this along with the other draft picks they have as compensation.

This is one of the reasons why the Rangers decided to keep that draft pick in case it was needed for trade or an offer sheet.

Rangers continuing to evaluate offers for Miller

The Rangers are also looking at options and offers for defenseman K’Andre Miller as he was unable to be moved at the 2025 NHL draft.

According to several pundits, general manager Chris Drury was unsatisfied with the offers he was receiving for Miller. And chose to keep his asset for the time being.

If Miller is moved, and the Rangers are looking to add to their defence while seeking out a replacement for Miller, a player like Bowen Byram is a player that can be brought in and help make the defence look different.

Previously on NYRangersInsider

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Insider links Buffalo Sabres coveted defenseman to New York Rangers ahead of free agency

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