Freshly hired Buffalo Sabres general manager Jarmo Kekalainen plans to revive contract extension talks with star forward Alex Tuch, a pending unrestricted free agent with 11 goals and 17 assists in 31 games this season.
Following his appointment as the Sabres' new general manager earlier this week, Jarmo Kekalainen's top priority is securing the future of star forward Alex Tuch.
According to TSN Insider Trading reports from Pierre LeBrun, "Kekalainen absolutely wants to get those talks going back on track with Tuch." LeBrun noted that previous negotiations stalled because the Sabres were unwilling to offer a double-digit AAV, adding, "We'll see if Kekalainen can get this guy signed."
Tuch, one of Buffalo's most vital offensive contributors, has tallied 28 points through 31 games in the 2025-26 season. Retaining the top pending UFA will demand a significant commitment; for comparison, Los Angeles Kings forward Adrian Kempe—a similar player—inked an eight-year, $85 million extension in November.
Under Kekalainen's leadership, the Sabres' approach to Tuch's deal could shape their long-term competitiveness. Negotiations will be a key storyline as the season continues.