The Buffalo Sabres could be facing a new scenario on their preseason agenda involving one of the team’s stars, Alex Tuch. In addition to ongoing talks for a contract extension, several NHL franchises have expressed interest in acquiring him, including the Edmonton Oilers and Tampa Bay Lightning.
The range of possibilities is opening up across conferences and divisions, elevating Tuch’s profile as one of the most coveted pieces on the market. Before moving forward with any extensions, the Sabres’ front office prioritized consolidating the roster, making this the right moment to address the situation.
In recent hours, it has emerged that the Lightning have taken the lead as the franchise most eager to bring in Tuch. Meanwhile, the Oilers are also seriously considering the forward to strengthen their attack. In this context, Buffalo is feeling the pressure of time and wants to make a decision soon.
Will Tuch receive an offer?
“They haven’t talked numbers yet; preliminary talks have started; both sides have relayed they want to get a deal done; they will get to numbers and term in the not too distant future; I would imagine that’s…8? 8.5? In that range,” NHL insider David Pagnotta reported on The Sheet.
According to Pagnotta, negotiations are underway, even though exact figures have not yet been discussed. However, the key point is that both the player and the franchise want to reach an agreement. An $8.5 million annual deal would elevate him to star status in the league.
Tuch’s contract situation
Tuch is currently in the final season of his seven-year, $33.25 million contract signed in October 2018. That deal carries a $4.75 million cap hit and is set to expire at the end of the 2025–26 season. If talks with the Sabres do not progress, the Oilers and Lightning are waiting in the wings.