The Buffalo Sabres are facing a crucial decision regarding the future of forward Alex Tuch. Tuch, a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA), is eligible for a contract extension, and the Sabres must determine whether to commit to a long-term deal or risk losing him.

The Sabres have been a surprise team this season, currently sitting third in the Atlantic Division. Their strong performance has increased their chances of making the playoffs for the first time in over a decade. With the team's improvement, General Manager Jarmo Kekalainen, who took over in December, faces the task of solidifying the roster.

Tuch, 29, is a key player for the Sabres, and ideally, the team would like to sign him to a long-term extension. NHL insider Chris Johnston noted that the Sabres are nearing a decision on Tuch, stating, "It's a little quiet in that sphere, but I don't think it's gonna remain that way. The Sabres are gonna have to figure out what the real price is, will they meet it, and if not they have a decision to make". Tuch, a Syracuse, New York native and Buffalo fan, might welcome a long-term contract to play for his childhood team.

If the Sabres and Tuch don't agree on an extension before the trade deadline on March 6, the team will have to consider trading him to avoid losing him for nothing in free agency. However, trading Tuch would mean losing a valuable player who can contribute to the team's playoff push.

A potential contract for Tuch could be similar to that of Los Angeles Kings forward Adrian Kempe, around $10 to $10.5 million over eight years. However, it would likely be less than Rasmus Dahlin's $11 million per season.

Recently, Tuch left a game against the New York Rangers with an undisclosed injury, but the Sabres weren't overly concerned. In a game against the Islanders, Tuch received a player grade of 7.

While the Sabres have untouchable players like Rasmus Dahlin and Tage Thompson, the team needs to decide if Tuch is part of their long-term plans. Other players, like Anton Wahlberg, might become trade candidates as the Sabres look to improve their roster. The Sabres recently acquired Gavin Bayreuther from Carolina in exchange for Viktor Neuchev.

Ultimately, the Sabres must weigh the benefits of keeping Tuch against the possibility of acquiring assets in a trade. The decision will impact the team's present playoff aspirations and its future competitiveness.