Report: Sabres' Tuch To Test Free Agency

Sunday, June 07, 2026


 

After making a run to the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs, the offseason is where the tough decisions are made. For the Buffalo Sabres, their next decision could come to a head soon. 

Tuch, who's seeking a raise after another great regular-season with his hometown team, scored 66 points (33 goals, 33 assists) in 79 games. During the playoffs, he played 13 games and scored seven points (three goals, four assists) on a team that was eliminated by the Montreal Canadiens. 

Tuch's contract with a $4.75 million average annual value expires in July, and without an offer from the Sabres in sight, TSN's Darren Dreger reported that Tuch will head to free agency. 


The problem is, Tuch, who is a productive forward for the Sabres, wants a new contract with length, while general manager Jarmo Keklainen is reported to be hesitant on offering an extension. 

Tuch himself didn't score a point during the second round of the playoffs against their Atlantic Division foes, the Canadiens. 

Tuch: The Wrong Side Of 30?

Sportsnet's Rory Boylen believes that the forward is seeking a $10 million AAV compared to GM Kevyn Adams original offer at $8 million. A significant gap between the two parties, which hasn't been resolved yet. 

 When negotiations between the two sides initially started this season, the Sabres' offer — under then-GM Kevyn Adams — was in the $8-million range. But given the cap inflation, team needs and scarcity on the open market, we can reasonably presume Tuch will sign somewhere for $10 million or more.

 The team will have to consider their future, as not only does the team have Zach Benson to worry about signing, but also whether or not it's worth signing someone who won't fit into their window of contention in the future. 

Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images

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