Perhaps the most fascinating player left on either board is defenseman Bowen Byram, a restricted free agent who has been the topic of trade speculation for weeks. Most of the other top restricted free agents are expected to remain with their teams, but Byram appears to be the one set for a move.

Who can follow the Buffalo Sabres’ plan? The New York State team has been rebuilding for 12 years, but has failed to make any progress. Instead of trusting and nurturing a core of young veterans, the Sabres trade them.