Alex Tuch Contract Decision Looms: GM Must Decide Whether To Trade Or Keep

Buffalo Sabres Face Contract Decision on Alex Tuch Ahead of Trade Deadline

Buffalo Sabres general manager Jarmo Kekalainen faces one of the most significant decisions of his tenure with the organization as the 2026 trade deadline approaches on March 6 . Alex Tuch's contract expires at the end of the 2025-26 season, making him an unrestricted free agent , and contract negotiations have revealed a substantial gap between the two sides.

Tuch is reportedly aiming for a contract above the $10.625 million annual average value that Adrian Kempe recently received from the Los Angeles Kings . Multiple reports indicate Tuch is seeking between $10-$11 million per season , while his reported asking price is around $10.5 million per season, representing a significant jump from his current $4.75 million salary .

The contract discussions have created uncertainty for the organization. Kekalainen has already spoken with Brian Bartlett, Tuch's agent , and talks about a contract extension are anticipated in January according to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period. However, according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, contract discussions have taken place, but the two sides aren't close .

Tuch has been a key contributor for the Sabres this season. Based on the verified team data, Buffalo holds a 32-19-6 record (70 points) and currently sits 4th in their division. The Syracuse native has compiled 31 points (12 goals and 19 assists) in 37 games for Buffalo this season . Last season, he set a new NHL record for blocked shots by a forward (113) while also scoring 36 goals .

The Sabres' improved performance has complicated the decision-making process. The Sabres stormed up the standings with a remarkable 21-5-2 run leading up to the NHL's break for the 2026 Winter Olympics . With the trade deadline approaching and no long-term contract in place, Buffalo is choosing to keep its star winger for a playoff run .

Kekalainen will have to decide before the 2026 NHL trade deadline whether to trade Tuch or keep him as a potential "own rental" with the understanding he could leave for nothing in July . New GM Jarmo Kekalainen is aggressively shopping around as a buyer according to reports, suggesting the organization may prioritize their current playoff positioning over asset management concerns.

The financial implications extend beyond Tuch's contract. The Sabres must account for a $6.4 million dead-cap figure next season stemming from the Jeff Skinner buyout , which adds complexity to any long-term financial commitment.

Tuch would be a coveted commodity for Stanley Cup contenders thanks to his versatility and all-around impact if the Sabres choose to trade him. However, the organization has told other teams they won't make a trade that weakens their current group per Friedman's reporting.

The situation represents one of the league's most intriguing storylines leading up to the 2026 NHL trade deadline as Buffalo attempts to balance their immediate playoff aspirations against long-term roster construction while facing their first legitimate postseason opportunity in over a decade.