Why the Avalanche Should Avoid Trading for Bowen Byram
There’s been growing speculation about a potential trade involving Bowen Byram, the Colorado Avalanche’s former top-4 NHL Draft pick. Byram was selected fourth overall by the Avalanche in the 2019 NHL Draft and spent four seasons with the team before being traded to the Buffalo Sabres in March 2024, in exchange for Casey Mittlestadt.
In July 2023, Colorado extended Byram as a restricted free agent, but he was later moved to Buffalo. Over his final two seasons with the Avalanche, Byram scored 18 goals in 97 out of 164 games. In his four seasons with Colorado, he appeared in 146 of a possible 328 games. However, last season with the Sabres, Byram played all 82 regular season games, marking the first time in his career that he managed a full season.
Despite his strong performance with Buffalo, with 38 points last season, Byram’s name has frequently popped up in trade rumors. His value is at its peak, which might lead many to think he’s set to continue on this upward trajectory. However, there’s a significant concern: Byram’s injury history, especially his concussion issues, which have plagued his career.
Byram has missed considerable time due to injuries, including 40 games in 2022. The impact of his concussions was highlighted by a quote from his father, who shared that in 2022, Byram expressed, “I can’t do it. I can’t play and feel like this.” This quote strikes a chord because it brings attention to the serious toll that concussions can have on a player’s well-being.
While Byram played a full season last year, the reality of his concussion history looms large. Concussions are a major concern for any player, and it’s crucial that they are properly managed, as playing through them can have long-term consequences.
Given Byram’s history and the uncertainties surrounding his health, the Avalanche would be wise to steer clear of a reunion. While a return to Colorado might seem like a nice story, it’s difficult to ignore the risks associated with his injury history. If it were up to me, I would not pursue a trade for Byram. Unfortunately, sometimes a player’s injuries are simply out of your control, and the potential risks outweigh the rewards. It would not make sense for Colorado to explore bringing back their former top-4 pick.
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