Blackhawks Sign Bowen Byram to Huge Extension, Other Chicago Free Agency Buzz

The Chicago Blackhawks are signing defenseman Bowen Byram to a six-year extension, with a $12.5 M AAV per season. Darren Dreger was the first to break the news, which has been supported by several other insiders.

Dreger posted early Wednesday morning, “An intriguing day ahead. The D market is wild. Toronto is “all-in” on Werenski. Carolina is still working on Carlson while considering Nikishin trade options. Plus, Chicago is eager to drop what is expected to be a 6 year deal on Bowen Byram at $12.5 mil per. Fun times.”

---

Chris Johnston added, “Bowen Byram is eligible to sign an extension with the Blackhawks today, which would commence with the 2027-28 season, and the expectation is that the deal will land around $12.5M per season.”

Byram’s six-year, $75 million extension with the Chicago currently makes him the highest average-paid NHL defenseman for the 2027-28 season (when the deal begins).

The question now will be, can he live up to it? Byram left Buffalo because he wanted an opportunity to be a No. 1 defenseman. He’ll get that opportunity in Chicago. If he reaches the potential he believes he can reach, this will be a solid deal for the Blackhawks. If it winds up he’s little more than a No. 2 or No. 3, it’s a lot of money to pay.

What Else Do the Blackhawks Have Cooking in Free Agency?

Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun Times looked at what other things the Blackhawks might look at as free agency opens. He noted they aren’t in the mix on any of the big three: Dylan Larkin, Zach Werenski and Connor Hellebuyck. However, when those three are moved, it will send domino effects throughout the market.

He writes, “There are a decent number of other top-six forwards available — including Matthew Knies (Maple Leafs), Kirill Marchenko (Blue Jackets), Jake DeBrusk (Canucks), Rickard Rakell (Penguins) and Tomas Hertl (Golden Knights) — but they’re all either aging or would cost a ton to acquire.”

There may also, eventually, be news on Connor Bedard. It doesn’t sound like an extension is happening today.

Next: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Maple Leafs, Panthers, Devils & Oilers Waiting