The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly exploring options to bolster their defense, and a potential trade involving Buffalo Sabres defenseman Bowen Byram has emerged as an intriguing possibility. According to a proposed scenario, the Leafs could acquire Byram in exchange for Brandon Carlo, Nick Robertson, and Calle Jarnkrok. This potential deal aims to address key roster needs for both teams.

Byram, a 24-year-old former fourth-overall pick, is a skilled, puck-moving defenseman that Toronto has been rumored to be targeting. Last season, Byram recorded 38 points and averaged over 22 minutes of ice time per game. The Leafs could provide Byram with top-four minutes, enhancing their transition game. NHL analyst James Mirtle reported the Maple Leafs want to add more skill to their defense group.

From Buffalo's perspective, acquiring Carlo would provide a steady, shutdown presence to pair with Rasmus Dahlin on their top defensive pairing. In addition to Carlo, the Sabres would gain a potential 20-goal scorer in Robertson and depth in Jarnkrok. The Sabres have been looking to add a top-six forward. A move to Buffalo could provide Robertson with the consistent opportunity he has been missing in Toronto, potentially allowing him to break into a top-six role.

While Byram signed a two-year contract this past summer, NHL insider David Pagnotta believes he remains a prime candidate to be traded. The Maple Leafs have a veteran blue-line core, and adding Byram would allow coach Craig Berube to balance his defense pairings throughout the season. Byram could also move up the depth chart as injuries occur.

Several other trade proposals have been suggested. One such proposal involves the Leafs acquiring Byram and a 2025 seventh-round pick in exchange for Nick Robertson, Bobby McMann, Simon Benoit, and a 2025 fifth-round pick.

The Leafs have four left-shot defensemen: Morgan Rielly, Jake McCabe, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, and Simon Benoit. Trading Benoit to the Sabres would open up a spot for Byram. Byram could potentially play on the bottom pair with Ekman-Larsson, giving the Leafs two solid, puck-moving defensemen.

Some believe Byram is an archetype every general manager should be searching for. He is an outstanding skater who can drive offense and delivered stellar defensive results for the Sabres. Byram recorded seven goals and 38 points in 82 regular season games with the Sabres, sporting a plus-11 rating.