The Buffalo Sabres find themselves at a critical juncture as newly appointed general manager Jarmo Kekalainen steps into a complex situation, inheriting the unresolved contract extension talks with star winger Alex Tuch. The recent dismissal of former GM Kevyn Adams has brought renewed attention to the stalled negotiations and the challenges the Sabres face in securing Tuch's long-term commitment.
Tuch, currently in the final year of his seven-year, $33.25 million contract (a $4.75 million cap hit), has expressed his desire to remain in Buffalo, stating his love for the city and the Sabres organization. However, reports indicate that the two sides have struggled to find common ground regarding his next deal.
According to TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun, Tuch's camp is believed to be seeking a contract with an average annual value (AAV) of at least $10 million, a figure that the Sabres, under previous management, were hesitant to meet. Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet reported that the Sabres were unwilling to commit to Tuch's salary demands without making "tough decisions everywhere else," highlighting the team's salary cap constraints.
One significant factor impacting the Sabres' financial flexibility is the buyout of Jeff Skinner's contract in June 2024. This decision resulted in dead-cap hits that will burden the team through the 2029-30 season, peaking at $6.4 million next season. These financial implications create a hurdle in offering Tuch the contract he desires.
Beyond the Skinner buyout, the Sabres also have considerable cap space tied up in players such as Jordan Greenway, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, Jack Quinn, and Bowen Byram, whose performances may not align with their respective salaries. The team must also make a determination on the long-term value and impact of Owen Power, who carries a significant $8.35 million cap hit.
Tuch, who will turn 30 in January, is coming off a strong season where he matched his career-high of 36 goals and added 31 assists for 67 points in 82 games. Acquired from the Vegas Golden Knights in 2021 as part of the Jack Eichel trade, Tuch has become a fan favorite in Buffalo, known for his two-way play and commitment to the team.
With the NHL trade deadline approaching in March 2026, Kekalainen faces a pressing decision. He must evaluate whether the Sabres can afford to meet Tuch's contract demands while addressing other areas of the roster. If an agreement cannot be reached, the Sabres may need to consider trading Tuch to avoid losing him as an unrestricted free agent.
Tuch's agent, Brian Bartlett, acknowledged that contract talks were put "on the back burner" earlier in the season after the two sides failed to find common ground. While both Tuch and the Sabres have expressed a mutual interest in a long-term deal, the financial realities and the team's overall cap situation present a significant challenge. Kekalainen's approach to these negotiations will be closely watched as he seeks to balance the team's short-term and long-term goals.
