Why the Penguins Could Target Bo Byram
The Penguins are in that dangerous in-between space again… still trying to contend while knowing the Crosby–Malkin–Letang window is narrowing fast. What they don’t have is a young, controllable, top-four defenseman who can skate, move the puck, and grow into a bigger role when the older core finally ages out.
That’s where Bo Byram comes in. At 23, Byram fits both timelines… he can help now, and he’s young enough to be a pillar post-Crosby.
He also brings a lot more than just timeline…
• Skating & Transition – The Penguins’ entire identity over the last 20 years has been built on puck movement from the back end. Byram thrives in transition and fits that DNA perfectly.
• Cost Certainty – Byram is still an RFA. The Penguins could lock him into a multi-year deal without worrying about immediate UFA leverage.
• Letang Insurance – Kris Letang isn’t going anywhere, but his workload has to be managed better. Byram allows Pittsburgh to spread minutes and modernize the blue line.
From Buffalo’s perspective…
This is the type of trade that could really set up the Sabres — and it’s exactly the kind of move a new GM like Jarmo Kekäläinen is itching to make to put his stamp on the roster. Dealing from a position of strength on defense to address scoring, leadership, and future assets is how front offices reshape a team quickly.
The Sabres are nicely set up on defense… lots of quality already… and more on the way. What they need is help scoring — and not just prospects. They would really like a young prospect in the deal, but also a player like Rickard Rakell, who could help now and bring leadership.
They also want a first-round pick. Not sure they could get it, but at the deadline, depending on where everything sits, they could get a bidding war going…
The Prospect the Sabres Want…
According to a great source, they love William Horcoff. The son of Shawn, Horcoff’s value is very high after looking impressive and NHL-ready for Team USA at the World Juniors… he’s big, talented, and checks a lot of boxes for Buffalo.
The Penguins feel Byram would really thrive in their system. He’s a puck-possession defenseman and truly showed that when he was in Colorado.
Don’t be surprised if Pittsburgh starts climbing the Bo Byram rumor chart as we get closer to the deadline… especially if the Penguins stay in the playoff bubble and the Sabres decide offense is the final piece they’re missing.
This one feels like it’s not going away.