Kekalainen Focused On Tuch Negotiations

 Buffalo Sabres general manager Jarmo Kekalainen has a lot of work ahead of him as he moves into his new position with the team. 

Evaluations of every aspect of the organization is underway. From the roster to the coaching staff, to the team culture, all facets of the operation will be closely examined. 

Kekalainen has had the advantage of being with the club as a senior advisor for the past seven months, prior to being named to his new post. That experience is his previous position, likely already had him thinking about the type of team he would like the Sabres to be. 

One issue that will have to be dealt with is the future of unrestricted free agent winger Alex Tuch. 

While the Tuch camp had previously put the contract talks on hold, with Kekalainen now in the GM’s chair, the situation will get attention. 

“I’ll take charge of that situation now, talk to his representatives, “ said Kekalainen. “It always takes two parties to agree on a number that both feel that it’s reasonable, not just for today, but moving forward, what you have to build with your team. Alex is a really good hockey player. We appreciate him, we like him, we want to get him signed. I think that’s been clear the whole time. Now we just have to agree on a number that works for both sides. 

While Tuch certainly brings a great deal to the Buffalo lineup and the Western New York, Kekalainen has no ties to the Sabres current roster and will bring an objective view to the negotiations. 

For his part, The thirty year old forward continues to deflect questions regarding his future as free agency draws closer. 

“I don’t know what’s going to happen,” said Tuch. “I don’t know how it’s going to happen. That’s completely up to him(Kekalainen) and my agent. Once I need to be filled in on anything, I’ll be filled in.”

Tuch is a versatile talent who plays in all situations for the Sabres, but he will be seeking a high price tag coupled with a maximum term in any potential new deal. 

The question is, will Kekalainen and the Sabres be willing to pay what will be a price over market value to retain Tuch’s services? Or will potential compensation on the trade market be explored as Kekalainen and the Sabres look to rework a roster and organization looking to stay in the playoff chase? 

The timing of the change at the general manager position signals that the club is not ready to give up on this season. 

While making a playoff push now will be a focus, an eye toward the future of the Buffalo Sabres will also be top of mind for Kekalainen and his club. 

How Alex Tuch fits into the vision for the future of the Sabres is a decision that will need to be arrived at soon, as the March 6th  NHL trade deadline draws ever closer.