The Buffalo Sabres are on the brink of ending a playoff drought that stretches back to the 2010-11 season. Currently holding the first wildcard spot in the Eastern Conference, the Sabres are looking to solidify their position as the season progresses. A key storyline involves Alex Tuch, as the team negotiates an extension with him while plotting their trade deadline strategy.
According to insights shared on the "32 Thoughts" podcast, Buffalo is not in a selling mood this year. Instead, they’re pushing forward with their playoff ambitions. The buzz around Tuch suggests he’s likely to remain with the Sabres, extension or not, as they gear up for the final stretch.
As March approaches, the Sabres find themselves in a pivotal position with 72 points, five points clear of the Washington Capitals, who are chasing the playoff pack. This could prompt Buffalo to make strategic moves to bolster their roster for a postseason run.
Tuch has been a standout performer this season, recording 22 goals and 26 assists, ranking second on the team behind Tage Thompson. Now in his 10th NHL season, Tuch has been with the Sabres since the 2021-22 season, after stints with the Vegas Golden Knights and the Minnesota Wild.
With 25 games remaining, Tuch is poised to surpass his 67-point tally from last season and is determined to lead the Sabres to the playoffs, ending the NHL's longest playoff drought. The Sabres recently secured a 2-1 victory over the New Jersey Devils and are set to take on the defending champion Florida Panthers next, a crucial matchup as they continue their playoff push.