Could the Buffalo Sabres be nudged into trading players like Bowen Byram or Owen Power if they struggle and would the Oilers be interested?
This analysis from Jeff Marek suggests that the Buffalo Sabres could face a pivotal crossroads if their season trajectory veers off course, potentially opening the door for a trade they’d prefer to avoid. Marek speculates that the Edmonton Oilers might look to capitalize on such a scenario, with their focus on Buffalo's promising blue-line talent, particularly Owen Power and Bowen Byram.
Byram, in particular, could become a pressing concern for the Sabres due to his potential arbitration-driven price hike. For the Oilers, adding a high-caliber defenseman would address lingering issues on their back end and bolster their playoff ambitions. Marek's comments hint that pressure within Buffalo’s organization—perhaps stemming from another underwhelming season—could lead to decisions rooted more in necessity than desire.
The prospect of a Sabres-Oilers deal underscores how delicate team dynamics and season outcomes can influence the NHL trade market. If Buffalo feels compelled to act, it could pave the way for Edmonton to land a significant defensive upgrade.
While the Oilers are under pressure to improve their defense, a scenario like this is exactly why insiders are starting to believe the team and General Manager Stan Bowman are likely to wait until closer to the trade deadline to strike. If the Sabres, who wouldn’t make these players available now, end up making them available later, the Oilers will have the space and the desire to talk to Buffalo.
It’s unlikely the Sabres part with either Power or Byram now. Marek noted, “Teams are willing to make a deal, but only if they get more value than they’re worth at the time.” And, that wasn’t just the Sabres he was talking about. Any team making trades today as though they are sellers will demand a premium this early in the season. There is no reason for the Oilers to pay that premium price just yet.
What Happens If the Sabres Falter? … Can the Oilers Strike?
Buffalo will have to make some tough decisions if they remain out of the playoff mix. Dylan Cozens and Jack Quinn are struggling, and the team might consider leveraging its defensive depth to bolster other areas. Sabres fans won’t want to admit that either Byram or Power could be made available, but Byram’s arbitration case will make him expensive and Marek suggested there are whispers out there regarding Power.
Not only that, but the Sabres have a recent history of trading with the Oilers—most notably this offseason’s Ryan McLeod-Matt Savoie swap.
The suggestion here is that these two teams may want to have the other on speed dial. For the Sabres, it will be about getting the best deal if they decide to sell players few expected to be on the market. For the Oilers, it will be about pouncing if the Sabres are willing to sell players that wouldn’t otherwise be available.
