There has not been a lot to cheer for or for the Sabres fanbase to hang their hats on this season. One thing that they have though, is the play of right winger Alex Tuch. He has continued to be a strong example both on and off the ice and his play indicates that.
The 28-year-old currently has his second best career totals in goals scored for the 2024/2025 season. He has found the back of the pipes 36 times and has been one of the lone reasons that the Sabres have been in games and were only eliminated from playoff contention a week ago.
Tuch also leads the NHL with six shorthanded goals on the year.
He has added to that with eight shorthanded points total. It is a testament that regardless of if the Sabres are a man down, Tuch is looking for every advantage.
He is also second among forwards in the league in takeaways with 46. Despite being a forward, he also ranks third on the Sabres in blocks on the season.
It was a hard pill for the Sabres fanbase to swallow after he was a part of the trade that sent Jack Eichel to Vegas Golden Knights, but despite that, he has been worth every part of that trade and should be a part of the Sabres offseason and turn around for next year.
He is signed with the Sabres through next season and should be a part of their rebuilding plans and hopes to get into the postseason next year. He is a also a fan favorite and with the organizations struggles they should keep that in mind as they continue goodwill with the fanbase.
This past week, he was awarded the Rick Martin Memorial Award. It is given annually to the player who demonstrates “on-ice excellence, resiliency, and dedication to the community. "
It is a fan vote and proves how popular that Tuch is to the fanbase and community. He has worked with children at Roswell Park and has done several charitable events in the Western New York Area.
“Ever since I was younger, my parents have instilled in me to help others that are less fortunate,” Tuch said. “I think of myself as the luckiest guy in the world, so each and every day if I can put a smile on one kid’s face or help out someone in need, that means my day’s accomplished.”
That smile has been on not just the fanbase but the Sabres organization as they have watched Alex Tuch have a remarkable season. Hopefully his leadership next year will be why the Sabres get over the playoff hump.