Blackhawks extend Bowen Byram to record contract amid NHL free agency
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 2, 2026, 5:02 AM
Last updated Jul 2, 2026
On July 1, the Chicago Blackhawks extended defenseman Bowen Byram's contract to $12.5 million a year, making him the NHL's highest-paid defenseman. This decision drew criticism as the Blackhawks previously traded the fourth-overall draft pick to acquire Byram. In contrast, several teams improved their rosters, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, who signed goalie Sergei Bobrovsky and revamped their forward lineup. The Vegas Golden Knights faced salary cap issues, leading to trades and limited signings.
- •Bowen Byram's extension makes him the NHL's highest-paid defenseman.
- •The Chicago Blackhawks traded a top draft pick for Byram.
- •Toronto Maple Leafs signed goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky.
- •Vegas Golden Knights dealt players due to salary cap concerns.
- •Several teams strengthened rosters during the first day of free agency.
- 5:02 AMYahoo Sports — NHL free agency winners, losers: Blackhawks' big extension raises eyebrows
"On Day 1 of NHL free agency, Stanley Cup-winning goalies were in demand and the Chicago Blackhawks paid $12.5 million a year in an extension.
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