BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Chicago Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill ruled out top defenseman Bowen Byram from playing at the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday night because of a family matter.
Byram's absence comes as he was preparing to face his former team for the first time since the Sabres traded him to the Blackhawks in a multiplayer deal in June. Byram, 25, subsequently signed a six-year, $75 million contract with the Blackhawks to become the team's top-paid defenseman.
The offensive-minded player had 21 goals and 89 points in 182 games with Buffalo.
He has yet to register a point this season, with Chicago opening with two straight losses. After playing Buffalo, the Blackhawks open their home schedule by hosting the St. Louis Blues on Tuesday.
