The Buffalo Sabres may be forced to move a pair of restricted free agents based on rumors that they would prefer a change of scenery, and both defenseman Bowen Byram, and winger JJ Peterka are at the top of the Athletic’s Trade Board, compiled by Chris Johnston.
Veteran forward Chris Kreider and Minnesota RFA center Marco Rossi top the list, but Byram ranks third as the most likely player to be dealt at some point this summer. Byram was acquired from Colorado just before the trade deadline in March, 2024 in exchange for center Casey Mittelstadt and scored a career-high 38 points last season for the Sabres.
Johnston indicates that the Sabres have an abundance of defensive depth on the left side, which is why Buffalo has been shopping the 23-year-old. Byram has the ability to be a top pairing blueliner and power play quarterback, but will not get that opportunity with Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power on the roster.
Peterka is also listed in the top 10 of the list, because the winger is looking for a significant pay raise coming off his entry-level deal. The 23-year-old German has 55 goals the last two seasons and was tied for second in team scoring with Dahlin with 68 points. The Sabres have struggled to recapture the offensive mojo they had in 2023, and Peterka represents one of the few consistent scorers on the roster, but it is unknown whether the rumors of the young forward wanting out of Buffalo are based in truth or are a negotiating ploy by agent Allan Walsh.
