In a stunning and emotional turn of events that left the hockey world buzzing and Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff at a rare loss for words, Buffalo Sabres right winger Alex Tuch made a major announcement this afternoon at a packed press conference inside KeyBank Center.
Standing before a backdrop of blue and gold, Tuch opened with a heartfelt message to fans and teammates before revealing:
“It is done. After deep reflection and conversations with my family and the organization, I’ve decided to take the next step in my career and… I’m committing long-term to the Buffalo Sabres.”
Yes — you read that right. Amid ongoing speculation that the 29-year-old fan favorite might test free agency or consider a trade, Tuch instead signed a massive 7-year contract extension worth a reported $63 million, keeping him in Buffalo through the 2031–32 season.
The announcement triggered an eruption of applause from reporters and staff in the room and was quickly met with a wave of support on social media from teammates, alumni, and Sabres faithful.
Head Coach Lindy Ruff, known for his poise, was visibly emotional:
“I’ve been in this game a long time… but this one caught me off guard. Alex embodies everything we want this team to be. He’s heart, grit, and loyalty.”
Tuch, a Baldwinsville, NY native, has often spoken about what playing for his hometown team means to him. Since joining Buffalo in the blockbuster Jack Eichel trade in 2021, he’s emerged not just as a top scorer but as one of the team’s most vocal leaders on and off the ice.
Last season, he posted career-high numbers with 34 goals and 42 assists, helping push Buffalo to its first playoff appearance in over a decade.
The announcement signals a clear direction from Sabres management: Build around homegrown heart and long-term stability. General Manager Kevyn Adams echoed that vision:
“Today isn’t just about a contract. It’s a statement. We’re building a culture — and Alex Tuch is at the center of it.”
As Tuch left the podium, he wore a Sabres jersey with “2032” stitched across the back — a symbol, perhaps, of what’s to come.
