Sabres' new GM Kekalainen eyes Tuch extension after front-office shakeup

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.

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Illustration depicting Buffalo Sabres owner Terry Pegula announcing the firing of GM Kevyn Adams and hiring of Jarmo Kekäläinen at a press conference.
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Buffalo Sabres fire GM Kevyn Adams and hire Jarmo Kekäläinen

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The Buffalo Sabres have relieved general manager Kevyn Adams of his duties and promoted Jarmo Kekäläinen to the role, effective immediately. Owner Terry Pegula announced the change, citing the need for new leadership to build a competitive organization. The Sabres, who sit eighth in the Atlantic Division with a 14-14-4 record, have not reached the playoffs since 2011.

New Buffalo Sabres general manager Jarmo Kekäläinen held his introductory press conference on Tuesday, pledging a full organizational review while expressing optimism for this season's playoffs amid the team's last-place standing in the Eastern Conference.

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Buffalo Sabres players and coach Lindy Ruff expressed accountability, optimism, and focus on performance following Jarmo Kekäläinen's appointment as general manager, replacing Kevyn Adams (as previously reported). Amid a three-game win streak and sitting six points from playoffs at 14-14-4, leadership emphasized winning despite the front-office shift.

The Pittsburgh Penguins received good news after Evgeni Malkin suffered a brief shoulder scare during a game, while trade deadline chatter intensifies around several teams. Reports suggest the Toronto Maple Leafs may sell key players, the Minnesota Wild could part with promising goalie Jesper Wallstedt, and the New York Rangers have set a high price for Artemi Panarin. Additionally, the NHL is reviewing an incident involving William Nylander.

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The New York Rangers are exploring trade options for left winger Artemi Panarin, who insists on a contract extension as part of any deal. Meanwhile, Nashville Predators general manager Barry Trotz is stepping down, leaving the team to navigate the trade deadline amid playoff contention. These developments highlight shifting dynamics ahead of the March 6 deadline.

Swedish forward Alexander Wennberg has agreed to a three-year, $18 million contract extension with the San Jose Sharks, securing his future with the team. The 31-year-old, who could have become an unrestricted free agent after this season, continues to perform strongly in his second year with the club. Wennberg was recently named to Sweden's roster for the 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

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As the New York Rangers struggle this season, speculation intensifies about trading star winger Artemi Panarin before the March deadline. The team has yet to discuss waiving his no-movement clause, but potential destinations include the Colorado Avalanche and Florida Panthers. Meanwhile, similar buzz surrounds defensemen on the Devils and Flames.

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