Buffalo Sabres defenseman Bowen Byram is being used as trade bait, and the Toronto Maple Leafs have been rumoured to be a contender for the player's services.
Bowen Byram recently signed a deal with the Buffalo Sabres for two seasons at an AAV of $6.25 million.
Overall, this was a solid deal for the Sabres, although they still seem interested in trading the defenseman, as they know he doesn't want to stick around long-term.
If they are going to trade him, it is going to have to happen this summer; otherwise, teams won't budge on him.
Bowen Byram and the Toronto Maple Leafs
In a new piece from David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, it was reiterated that Byram is someone who could be on the move.
Even with a new 2-year contract under his belt, Bowen Byram remains a prime candidate for the Sabres to move at some point this off-season. It's unclear what they are looking for, at this stage, but Buffalo's desire is to add a top-six forward.
However, despite previous reports linking the Leafs to Byram, it seems like the Leafs aren't even on the list. A list that includes ten teams.
Teams Reportedly Linked: Vancouver, Philadelphia, NY Rangers, Columbus, Calgary, Boston, Anaheim, Los Angeles, St. Louis, Vegas
If the Leafs wanted Byram, they would be getting rid of Morgan Rielly at the same time, which would be a controversial move.
Whether or not the Leafs ever decide to do this remains to be seen. For now, don't count on it.
General Manager Brad Treliving has a plan, but the Leafs fanbase will just have to be patient.