So, is this really how it’s going to end for one of the Sabres’ fan favorites? Just a few years ago, it seemed certain he would finish his career in the Blue and Gold. But as the March 7th trade deadline approaches, that scenario is looking increasingly unlikely—if the latest rumors hold any truth.
Cooper Godin of Canucks Daily recently reported on a beloved player who might soon be heading to British Columbia. The hometown star whose time with the Sabres has felt like something straight out of a Hollywood script.
Everyone remembers how he arrived in Buffalo—he was a key part of the blockbuster Jack Eichel trade about three and a half years ago. Since then, he’s been a productive and physical force for the Sabres, tallying 223 points, 93 goals, and 210 hits across 258 games. If Buffalo moves him, it would push them even closer to walking away from the Eichel deal with little to show for it.
Will Alex Tuch be on the move or are these just rumors?
Of course, one article could be nothing more than speculation, but Michael Augello of The Hockey Writers also mentioned Tuch in his piece. Both writers cited Elliotte Friedman as a source, adding credibility to the rumors.
While it would certainly be disappointing to see Alex Tuch traded, there’s some reassurance in knowing he won’t come cheap. Among the Sabres players rumored to be on the move—Tuch, JJ Peterka, Jack Quinn, Dylan Cozens, Owen Power, and Bowen Byram—Tuch would likely command the highest return.
Unless a team is willing to part with a first-round pick, a top-tier prospect, and an NHL-ready player who can contribute right away, it’s tough to imagine the Sabres pulling the trigger on a deal. Still, Tuch has been a standout performer on an underwhelming team.
Alex Tuch isn’t going anywhere unless the Sabres get a massive offer
While Tuch has been one of the few bright spots for the Sabres this season—posting 47 points and 23 goals in 59 games—he’s more of a second-line winger on a solid team rather than a game-changing forward. That means only a team desperate to make a deep playoff run or win the Stanley Cup would be willing to pay a steep price to acquire him.
What kind of team fits that mold? One with a championship window that could be closing soon. The Washington Capitals immediately come to mind, along with the Canucks and even the Tampa Bay Lightning. These are the types of teams that might be willing to put together a substantial trade package for Tuch.
Sure, it would sting to see a hometown player like Tuch suit up elsewhere and possibly lift the Stanley Cup, and it would likely signal yet another organizational reset. But that doesn’t necessarily mean the Sabres would come away with a bad deal in return.