Buffalo Sabres defenseman Bowen Byram is once again at the center of NHL trade rumors, and the Vancouver Canucks may wind up being one of the most serious suitors. 

With speculation heating up that the 24-year-old blueliner could be on the move just over a year after being traded to Buffalo, Vancouver’s long-standing interest in Byram may finally come to fruition — and it could be the move that helps them avoid a full-scale rebuild.

According to Rick Dhaliwal of the Donnie and Dhali podcast, multiple Western Conference teams are monitoring Byram’s status, including the Canucks. Other reports noted that Byram has a mutual interest. 

Dhaliwal stated on the podcast that Vancouver’s front office has been trying to acquire Byram “since the day they arrived.” And, there might be an extra incentive now, given that there is uncertainty surrounding the future of Quinn Hughes. 

Could Byram Be Plan B To Avoid A Full-Scale Rebuild?

Byram’s upside is undeniable. The 2019 fourth-overall pick finished the 2024-25 season with 38 points and played over 22 minutes a night. While defensive struggles have followed him in Buffalo—especially on the rush, his offensive instincts and transition play continue to draw league-wide interest. With a new contract looming as a restricted free agent, but also with him being behind a couple of other defensemen in Buffalo’s pecking order, the Sabres may be ready to move on.

Meanwhile, the Canucks face a potential future dilemma. 

On the surface, it’s fair to ask why would the Canucks pursue another top-four left-shot defenseman when they already have Quinn Hughes and Marcus Pettersson? The answer may lie in the uncertainty surrounding their captain. 

Rumors persist that Hughes may eventually want to join his brothers in New Jersey, and unless the Canucks lock him into a long-term commitment soon, they may be forced to consider a blockbuster trade.

If that happens, Hughes is one of the last remaining pieces of the Canucks core that keeps them from blowing everything up. Vancouver would need a player like Byram to stabilize the back end and ensure the franchise doesn’t enter a prolonged rebuild.

It’s unclear what the Canucks know or don’t know about Hughes. They may or may not have been given the indication he’s staying. However, if they are leaning toward knowing his exit is inevitable, their interest in someone like Byram makes perfect sense. 

Byram reportedly grew frustrated being behind Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power in Buffalo — but the Canucks could offer him a chance to grow into a larger role, especially if Hughes is moved.

Whether as insurance or a direct replacement, Byram would be a vital piece in Vancouver’s effort to stay competitive. Adding him, while inserting whatever pieces come back in a Hughes trade could reshape the Canucks in a hurry. Acquiring him now could be the bold move that prevents a tear down and keeps the Canucks on a playoff track.

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