
Blues Target Bowen Byram to Boost Roster
2025-07-03
Author: Benjamin
St. Louis Blues Eye Major Trade Move
The St. Louis Blues are on a mission to reshape their roster this season. Following a new logo reveal, a significant rookie trade, and the release of a veteran player, the Blues are now setting their sights on acquiring defenseman Bowen Byram from the Buffalo Sabres, as reported by Jeremy Rutherford from The Athletic.
While other teams might consider placing an offer sheet on the former fourth-overall pick, St. Louis lacks the draft capital to go that route and must pursue a trade instead.
Byram’s Rising Stature
During the 2024-25 season, Byram thrived alongside star defender Rasmus Dahlin, achieving a personal best of 38 points in 82 games and averaging a career-high of 22:42 minutes on the ice. This was a significant jump from his previous year with the Colorado Avalanche, where he averaged 21 minutes and recorded 24 points in 42 games.
Despite his impressive statistics, Byram’s journey has not been without challenges. Collaborating with Dahlin, the duo showcased an impressive plus-15 goal differential. However, when separated from Dahlin, Byram’s performance dipped significantly, revealing a minus-22 goal differential.
Blues Present an Open Opportunity
The Blues may offer Byram the ideal opportunity for growth, especially after losing top left-defenseman Torey Krug, who spent last season sidelined due to an ankle injury. Current player Philip Broberg stepped up in Krug's absence but only managed 29 points in 68 games. A transfer to St. Louis would put Byram in direct contention for top-pair minutes, potentially pushing Broberg into a secondary role.
Financial Challenges Ahead
However, negotiations won't be a walk in the park. The Blues currently have only $625,150 in projected cap space, which could slightly increase once Krug hits long-term injured reserve. With Byram's previous contract at $3.85 million, his value could double after his standout season alongside Dahlin.
Potential Trade Assets
Jordan Kyrou, a top-tier winger who has consistently achieved over 70 points in the past few seasons, has surfaced in trade discussions. If he proves too valuable to move, the Blues could instead tap into their pool of promising young prospects like Jake Neighbours or Dalibor Dvorsky to fill the void.
What's Next for the Blues?
Less than two weeks after declaring that the roster was ‘set,’ Blues general manager is actively seeking ways to shake things up. Landing Byram could mark a monumental addition to an already evolving roster that contended in the Wild Card race last season, boasting the highest goals in the Western Conference. The acquisition of Byram may significantly elevate the team’s offensive capabilities and overall performance.