Yeah, you know things are lean when a two-year bridge deal for a young defenseman is something to celebrate. But that's where we are with the Buffalo Sabres these days.

Apparently, nobody wants to play there. The taxes suck. The team sucks, for sure for sure. Haven't made the playoffs in 14 seasons and, let's be realistic, probably won't for 15 seasons.

But when they signed defenseman Bowen Byram to a two-year extension worth $6.25 million per season this week, it represented some progress for them. For once in, like forever, they managed to remove the drama from a situation and get a deal done.

And it's a deal that's good for both sides as they try to build up some trust with each other.

Watch today's video column for the full take, and let us know your thoughts in the comments.

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