With the NHL offseason approaching, a list of the top 20 trade targets has emerged, highlighting players who may be on the move. JJ Peterka of the Buffalo Sabres leads the pack as a pending RFA drawing interest, while Chris Kreider of the New York Rangers holds a 15-team no-trade clause, complicating potential deals. Marco Rossi and Bowen Byram are also under scrutiny, representing younger talent that could reshape team rosters.

Veteran names like Erik Karlsson and Jonathan Marchessault are included, with Karlsson's hefty contract and Marchessault's struggles in Nashville raising eyebrows. The list further explores various players like K'Andre Miller, Vladimir Tarasenko, and Thatcher Demko, all of whom could impact their respective teams significantly, whether through trades or extensions. Teams must navigate cap space and player performance to devise optimal strategies.

The Buffalo Sabres are currently assessing the trade value of Bowen Byram, the 23-year-old defenseman, who is a pending restricted free agent. With two years left on his contract before he becomes an unrestricted free agent, the Sabres have the luxury of time. Recent changes in Byram's representation have sparked discussions about his market value. The Sabres' interest in Byram indicates they see potential in him, suggesting he could be a valuable asset if traded.

In other NHL news, the upcoming unrestricted free agency is generating buzz around players like Sam Bennett, who could command a significant payday this offseason. The focus on top free agents highlights the potential movement within the league, especially among teams looking to strengthen their rosters.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are in search of ways to enhance their roster, particularly by looking at larger and more physical players. With General Manager Kyle Dubas at the helm, the team is considering an offer sheet for Buffalo Sabres defenseman Bowen Byram, who is currently earning $3.8 million and could fit into the Penguins' plans. The Penguins, however, have also been mentioned in rumors concerning potential trades, including one involving goaltender Tristan Jarry and possibly Erik Karlsson.

Despite some disgruntlement over Ryan Graves’ contract, the team is unlikely to pursue a buyout. Instead, they may look to retain their key players while focusing on players in the upcoming draft who can deliver a physical edge. The Penguins will continue to strategize as they look to bolster their lineup for the next season.

Buffalo Sabres defenseman Bowen Byram had a stellar breakout season, notching 31 assists and 38 points while averaging just over 22 minutes of ice time per game. As a pending RFA, he is expected to command a raise from his current $3.85 million salary. Byram expressed enthusiasm about his contract negotiations, highlighting the positive atmosphere in the Sabres locker room. The team faces tough decisions ahead, with multiple RFAs, including Devon Levi and Jack Quinn, needing to be re-signed. The Sabres may explore trading Byram to address other roster gaps, particularly if they aim for a long-term solution instead of a short-term fix.

Mattias Samuelsson, another Sabres defenseman, endured a challenging season marred by injuries but showed improvement towards the end. Despite a five-year contract at $4.286 million per season, questions linger about his future with the team. With the Sabres looking to shake up their roster, there's speculation about potential trades involving Samuelsson as they aim to improve moving into next season.

The NHL trade deadline approaches, and various defensemen are emerging as likely trade candidates. Among them, David Savard of the Montreal Canadiens stands out as a right-shot D-man set to become a UFA. His reasonable $3.5 million salary may attract contending teams looking for depth. Luke Schenn of the Nashville Predators brings physicality to the table, making him a viable option for teams in need of grit on the blue line. Rasmus Ristolainen from the Philadelphia Flyers, while an injury risk, could be a valuable asset due to his size and skill.

Brian Dumoulin of the Anaheim Ducks could serve as a cost-effective rental, while Connor Murphy of the Chicago Blackhawks might attract attention due to his potential for a fresh start. Carson Soucy of the Vancouver Canucks is becoming an unwanted player following a roster change, making him a low-cost option for teams. Younger players like Mario Ferraro from the San Jose Sharks or Bowen Byram of the Buffalo Sabres could command a higher price but represent long-term investments.