The Los Angeles Kings may be serious contenders for Buffalo defenseman Bowen Byram, but they’re far from the only ones. According to TSN’s Darren Dreger on the Barn Burner and Ray & Dregs podcasts, the Kings are joined by a crowded field of suitors that includes the Vancouver Canucks, Vegas Golden Knights, and at least four other teams — among them the Flyers, Maple Leafs, Avalanche, and Blues.
Byram, 24, is one of the most sought-after trade candidates this offseason, ranked No. 2 on TFP’s Summer Trade Watch List. With Buffalo having just moved forward J.J. Peterka to the Utah Mammoth, it’s clear the Sabres are listening on younger roster players — but they want help now, not future draft picks.
Los Angeles Kings Among 6 Teams Vying For Bowen Byram
“The Sabres are receiving consistent interest,” Dreger said, noting that teams view Byram as a top-four-caliber blueliner, even on his off-hand. The Canucks already have Quinn Hughes and Marcus Pettersson on the left, while Vegas boasts Shea Theodore and Noah Hanifin. Los Angeles, meanwhile, may be eyeing Byram as a younger, more offensive-minded replacement for Vladislav Gavrikov, who appears likely to depart in free agency.
Byram hasn’t made a major statistical leap since arriving in Buffalo but remains a high-upside defender with legitimate playoff experience, including a Stanley Cup title with the Avalanche in 2022. Over the last three seasons, he’s averaged 0.46 points per game and blocked 313 shots in 246 appearances — showing he can handle his own in the defensive zone while contributing offensively.
L.A. has reason to act. The Kings are already facing uncertainty on their blue line, with Jordan Spence traded to Ottawa and no guarantee Gavrikov returns. The free-agent market is thin, and Byram’s youth and mobility make him a rare opportunity.
Buffalo’s asking price is reportedly clear to interested teams, with NHL-ready contributors at the top of their wish list. If the Kings want to win this bidding war, they’ll need to offer real talent — and soon. With the NHL Draft and free agency looming, the clock is ticking.