What Happened
Chicago Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill ruled out defenceman Bowen Byram for Saturday night's game at Buffalo due to a family matter. Byram had been preparing to face the Sabres for the first time since Buffalo traded him to Chicago in a multiplayer deal in June. He later signed a six-year, $75 million contract with the Blackhawks, becoming their highest-paid defenceman. Byram has yet to record a point this season, and Chicago has lost its first two games.
Key Details
- Byram will miss Saturday's game at Buffalo because of a family matter, per coach Jeff Blashill.
- It would have been his first game against the Sabres since the June multiplayer trade.
- Byram signed a six-year, $75 million deal with Chicago in June.
- The 25-year-old had 21 goals and 89 points in 182 games with Buffalo.
- He has no points this season; Chicago has opened with two straight losses.
- Chicago hosts St. Louis on Tuesday to open its home schedule.
What It Means
Byram's absence removes Chicago's top-paid defenceman from a game that carried personal significance against his former club. The Blackhawks, still seeking their first win and first point from Byram this season, must adjust their blue line in Buffalo. His contract and offensive history in Buffalo underline how central he is expected to be to Chicago's defence.
What's Next
Byram's status beyond Saturday is not known. Chicago returns home to face St. Louis on Tuesday, when he could make his home debut with the Blackhawks if available.