There are a lot of new faces on the Avalanche compared to the 2022 Stanley Cup-winning team but a few things feel vaguely familiar to this year's squad. At the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline, the Colorado Avalanche made a big move, trading Bowen Byram to the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for Casey Mittelstadt. The move made sense for both teams, as the Avalanche needed a second-line center, and the Sabres needed to upgrade their defense. Since the trade, Mittelstadt has been an excellent addition to the Avalanche. In 11 games, the 25-year-old has four goals, seven points, and a plus-3 rating in seven games. Overall, he has been fitting in nicely, and the same can be said for Byram in Buffalo. Bowen Byram [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjA1NTExNzE1Nzc1ODQ5ODY1/usatsi_22814126.jpg] Bowen Byram Since arriving in Buffalo, Byram has found a home in the Sabres' top four, and it has benefitted him big time. In 13 games with Buffalo thus far, the 22-year-old has three goals, six points, and a plus-1 rating. That is pretty solid production from the point. However, what's also encouraging about Byram's play is that he has been dependable defensively while playing bigger minutes. This has already made him a very impactful player for the Atlantic Division club. Sometimes, a player thrives when given a change of scenery, and Byram certainly is taking advantage of his situation in Buffalo right now. He should continue to emerge as a key defender in their lineup for years to come, and it's hard not to feel happy for the youngster. RECENT AVALANCHE NEWS Avalanche forward accused of pranking Marc-Andre Fleury [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/colorado-avalanche/latest-news/avalanche-forward-accused-of-pranking-marc-andre-fleury] Nathan MacKinnon scores NHL's Star of the Month hat trick [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/colorado-avalanche/players/nathan-mackinnon-scores-nhls-star-of-the-month-hat-trick] Avalanche forward scores beautiful first goal of season [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/colorado-avalanche/latest-news/avalanche-forward-scores-beautiful-first-goal-of-season] 'We'll have to be smart about it': Avalanche plan pace to finish season in good position [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/colorado-avalanche/latest-news/avalanche-plan-pace-to-finish-season-in-good-position] Avalanche sign gritty forward to contract extension [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/colorado-avalanche/latest-news/avalanche-sign-gritty-forward-to-contract-extension]
