Since arriving, Buffalo Sabres winger Alex Tuch has solidified himself as one of the franchise’s greatest assets in more ways than one.
The Buffalo Sabres thought they were getting another franchise cornerstone when they traded for Alex Tuch. And the winger has responded well, with 21 points in 19 games heading into Wednesday’s matchup with the Montreal Canadiens.
But within the organization, Tuch’s production pales in comparison to something else he brings to the table: When he was with the Vegas Golden Knights, he relished in a winning culture. Something the Buffalo Sabres haven’t seen in a decade.
The Buffalo Sabres acquired more than just a productive winger in Alex Tuch
Despite the trying times the Sabres continue to find themselves in, Tuch’s everlasting optimism is a reason for hope. And it’s an approach he’s brought from Vegas to his hometown team (Tuch grew up in Syracuse). Despite the fact the Sabres reached a new level of NHL infamy with 11 straight seasons without a playoff appearance barring some miracle.
But hey, Tuch, and the entire Sabres fanbase, have a reason to believe. He’s part of a young nucleus that includes Tage Thompson, Rasmus Dahlin, Peyton Krebs, Dylan Cozens, and a slew of up-and-comers like Jack Quinn and J.J. Peterka. Not to mention Owen Power in the college ranks.
Tuch, 25, will take a leadership role with the Sabres heading into 2022-23, if he hasn’t already done so. He learned a winning culture early during his days with the Golden Knights, where supposed veteran cast-offs took an expansion team to new heights. So he knows first-hand just how good an NHL team can be even with the odds stacked against them.
So far, Tuch has been a revelation. Besides his points outing which ranks third in franchise history regarding the start of a career in Buffalo following a trade (only Doug Gilmour and Pat LaFontaine had more points), Tuch has already earned a spot on the first line, the power play, and penalty kill. Signed through 2025-26, Tuch will lead this team for years to come.
(All statistics provided by Hockey Reference)