The Buffalo Sabres are in the thick of a season that feels different - in the best way. Sitting at 32-19-6, they’re holding down fourth in the Atlantic Division and, more importantly, staring down a real shot at snapping a 14-year playoff drought that’s loomed over the franchise like a storm cloud. But as the postseason push heats up, one of their cornerstone players - Alex Tuch - is becoming a storyline of his own.
Tuch, a heart-and-soul winger who’s as valuable in the locker room as he is on the ice, is set to hit unrestricted free agency this summer. Naturally, that’s sparked questions about his future in Buffalo.
Will the Sabres lock him up long term? Could he be moved if a deal doesn’t get done?
Or will they keep him for the stretch run, contract uncertainty and all?
According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, there have been some contract talks between Tuch and the Sabres, but nothing close to a done deal. Still, the organization isn’t looking to weaken its roster - and that’s a telling stance. The message is clear: this team is focused on winning now.
And honestly, that’s the right call.
Tuch isn’t just another top-six forward. He’s a driving force behind Buffalo’s resurgence - a hometown guy who brings size, speed, and a relentless motor every night.
Trading him at the deadline, even without an extension in place, would send the wrong message to a group that’s finally finding its stride. After more than a decade of playoff absences, this team has earned the right to chase something meaningful, and Tuch is a big part of that pursuit.
That said, the Sabres shouldn't lose sight of the long game either. Tuch is a player worth building around.
He’s in his prime, he fits the identity this team is trying to establish, and he clearly thrives in Buffalo. Getting a long-term deal done would be a major win for the organization - both on the ice and in the eyes of a fan base that’s been waiting for a reason to believe again.
So yes, the Sabres are in a tricky spot. But it’s the kind of situation good teams find themselves in.
They’ve got a star player approaching free agency, a real shot at the postseason, and decisions to make that could shape the future of the franchise. The good news?
They’re playing meaningful hockey in February - and that alone is a sign of how far they’ve come.