What Bowen Byram’s Time with Avs Meant to Him

It’s a bittersweet return for Buffalo Sabres defenseman and Avs 2019 No. 1 draft pick Bowen Byram. The 23-year-old was part of the 2022 Stanley Cup team and has kept connections from his time in the Mile High City.

“I came here as a young guy and kind of became my second home. So lots of fond memories at the rink, away from the rink, met a lot of good people and grew a lot of good friendships. So it’s good to see everyone. And fun to be back.

“EJ (Erik Johnson) was awesome, he was awesome to me. Being a young guy, really took care of me, made sure I was a part of everything and felt a part of the team. So still one of my good friends and someone I keep in touch with,” Byram said.

The Cranbrook, British Columbia native said he spent some time with a few of his former teammates ahead of Thursday night’s game — his first back at Ball Arena since joining the Sabres.

It was odd to play against some of his friends when the teams met for the first time in Buffalo on Dec. 3 and not a good memory for him as it was an epic 5-4 comeback win for the Avalanche.

“It was weird, for sure, but they’ve had a lot of turnover over there, and it’s not as recognizable as a team for me as it used to be. So just another hockey game,” Byram said.

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He was sent to Buffalo for Casey Mittelstadt at the trade deadline last season. It was a surprise for the fans and a tough move for GM Chris MacFarland, who expressed as much in a press conference after the deal.

There were high expectations for Byram after being drafted fourth overall and he displayed a great deal of talent in the time he spent in burgundy and blue. He was a fan favorite but unfortunately suffered a few concussions in his first couple of seasons which limited his playing time. But he did take some positive notes from his stint with the Avs.

“The consistency and what you do as a pro to prepare for every game, and hopefully the team has success when you’re playing well,” Byram said. “If every guy continues to prepare, take care of themselves, be a good pro away and at the rink, you can string games together. And that’s really what I learned in Colorado. So something I tried to apply here.”

Byram is a genuine and approachable guy, always polite, respectful, and willing to engage with the Avs media. We got his familiar smile and friendly demeanor accompanied by handshakes and warm hellos ahead of opposing locker room interviews. Returning to Ball Arena might not be easy for him, but I’d bet fans will greet him with a heartfelt welcome.