Sabres Decide to Keep Alex Tuch Ahead of Trade Deadline

Buffalo Sabres opt to hold onto veteran winger despite contract extension talks stalling

Mar. 4, 2026 at 3:12pm

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The Buffalo Sabres have decided to keep forward Alex Tuch on their roster ahead of the NHL trade deadline, despite ongoing contract extension talks between the team and Tuch's representatives failing to reach an agreement. New Sabres GM Jarmo Kekalainen has had open dialogue with Tuch's agent, but the two sides have not been able to align on the terms of a new contract. As a result, the Sabres will wait until the offseason to revisit Tuch's future with the team.

Why it matters

Tuch has been a key player for the Sabres this season as the team looks to end its 14-year playoff drought. Keeping the veteran winger provides stability and scoring punch for Buffalo's push to the postseason, though his long-term future with the franchise remains uncertain.

The details

According to ESPN's Emily Kaplan, the Sabres have decided not to trade Tuch before Friday's NHL trade deadline, despite the fact that he is in the final year of his current contract and extension talks have stalled. Kekalainen and Tuch's agent, Brian Bartlett, have been in open dialogue, but they have not been able to agree on the terms of a new deal. As a result, the Sabres will wait until the offseason to revisit Tuch's contract situation.

  • The NHL trade deadline is on Friday, March 3, 2026.
  • Contract extension talks between the Sabres and Tuch's representatives have been ongoing over the Olympic break.

The players

Alex Tuch

A veteran winger for the Buffalo Sabres who is in the final year of his current contract.

Jarmo Kekalainen

The new general manager of the Buffalo Sabres who has been leading the contract extension negotiations with Tuch.

Brian Bartlett

The agent representing Alex Tuch in his contract extension talks with the Buffalo Sabres.

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What they’re saying

“I also don't expect Tuch to be on the move.”

— Emily Kaplan, ESPN Reporter

What’s next

The Sabres will revisit contract extension talks with Alex Tuch in the offseason, after the team's playoff push has concluded.

The takeaway

By keeping Tuch on the roster for the remainder of the season, the Sabres are signaling their belief that he can be a key contributor to their push for the playoffs. However, the inability to reach an agreement on a contract extension means Tuch's long-term future in Buffalo remains uncertain.