Canucks Could Make Panic Trade With Sabres After Latest Quinn Hughes Development

Vancouver's interest isn't new. GM Patrik Allvin has been eyeing Byram since taking over, and the Canucks allegedly explored acquiring him in 2023 during J.T. Miller trade talks.

Now that Byram may be on the trade block and allegedly wants to come home, Vancouver may be in a position to make a serious push.

Feeding the rumor, NHL insider Nick Kypreos recently hinted that the Canucks' interest in Byram is partly a strategic move, kind of like an insurance policy, so to speak, against the possible future loss of star defenseman Quinn Hughes.

'Canucks' interest in Sabres Bowen Byram is in part to protect against a possible Quinn Hughes departure.'

- Nick Kypreos

The Canucks could be panicking at the thought of losing Hughes to free agency

Although there has been no reported trade rumor concerning Hughes, the Canucks are certainly hedging their bets, and this could be seen as a panic move in order to avoid losing Hughes.

Buffalo does, though, hold Byram's rights and has cap space to keep him, with over $23 million to spend. But GM Kevyn Adams doesn't appear to be rebuilding the roster.

Other Sabres, like Alex Tuch and Owen Power, have also cropped up in trade rumors, hinting at an even bigger rebuild. Byram's next contract could be for approximately $6-8 million annually, and he would then be a prime acquisition target.

With free agency opening July 1, all eyes will be on whether Vancouver makes a move, whether it be panic or not, or if someone else is eager to make a move.