Bowen Byram’s contract in Chicago is going to drive Kent Hughes crazy

The Chicago Blackhawks gave up the moon—including a fourth overall pick—to acquire Bowen Byram from Buffalo.

It was clearly to be expected that the player would hold out for his new team with an iron fist when it came to salary negotiations. He held the balance of power.

After all, the Hawks couldn't afford to let him slip away into free agency in a year.

And now, according to Darren Dreger, the defenseman is set to sign a six-year contract (2027–2033) that will pay him $12.5 million per season.

Nothing less.

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

— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) July 1, 2026

My colleague Maxime Truman is right when he says that the current market is going to give Kent Hughes a headache—a GM who likes his salary structure and isn't emotional when it comes to contracts.

How can he navigate such a market?

Salary figures that will drive GMs like Kent Hughes completely crazy! https://t.co/yTFLkZ2gRG

— Maxime Truman (@MaximeTruman) July 1, 2026

Here's yet another sign that the Canadiens are really likely to try to improve their team through trades rather than anything else. I hope no one's surprised…

Details to follow…