Oilers eyeing $33,250,000 star amid Josh Norris injury concerns in Buffalo Sabres, per insider
The Edmonton Oilers are eyeing Buffalo Sabres forward Alex Tuch as a potential addition to their roster. With two consecutive losses in the Stanley Cup Finals, the Oilers are looking to bolster their depth and make strategic moves to strengthen the team. Despite re-signing Connor McDavid at his current salary of $12.5 million to maintain flexibility, the Oilers are willing to explore options to improve their lineup.
Tuch, who is in the final year of his 7-year, $33,250,000 contract with the Sabres, has the option to sign an extension with the team. However, NHL insider David Pagnotta revealed on Daily Faceoff Live that Tuch is still open to staying in Buffalo. He expressed his desire to make things work with the Sabres but also hinted at potential discussions with other teams, including the Oilers, if a deal is not reached with Buffalo by the midway point of the season.
Buffalo’s decision-making process may be impacted by injury concerns, particularly the absence of center Josh Norris, who is expected to miss a significant amount of time according to head coach Lindy Ruff. This could put added pressure on Tuch and other forwards to step up in Norris’ absence, making a trade scenario more complicated for the Sabres.
Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic provided an update on the contract negotiations between Tuch and Buffalo, indicating that talks have been progressing slowly due to differing salary expectations. Tuch’s camp is reportedly seeking a deal worth around $10 million per season, a figure that may not align with the Sabres’ cap space management strategy. As the season unfolds, the urgency to reach a resolution could increase for both parties, with the situation closely monitored by the respective teams.
In conclusion, the potential acquisition of Alex Tuch by the Edmonton Oilers could add depth and talent to their lineup, while the Buffalo Sabres face challenges in balancing their cap space and addressing injury concerns. The evolving negotiations between Tuch and the Sabres will be closely watched by hockey fans as the season progresses.
