MITTELSTADT FOR BYRAM
The Colorado Avalanche acquired forward Casey Mittelstadt from the Buffalo Sabres for defenseman Bowen Byram.
What does it give the Colorado Avalanche
The Avalanche desperately needed to upgrade their No. 2 center role, which is likely where Mittelstadt will play. He is enjoying a very good campaign and will now be launched into the Western Conference race to the Stanley Cup Final. He should be a good fit for the Avs.
What does it give the Buffalo Sabres
For Buffalo, adding Byram makes sense because they are deep in forwards and not as deep on defense. That said, Byram will probably need to play right defense in Buffalo because of the presence of both Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power. The Sabres still need defensive D-men.
Fantasy impact
Mittelstadt remains a solid fantasy option, so fantasy owners need not change anything if he is already on the roster. As for Byram, his chances of seeing quality power-play time remain slim behind Dahlin and Power (after years playing behind Cale Makar in Denver). That said, pick Byram up if he is available.
