USA Hockey selected the Buffalo Sabres two top forwards, Tage Thompson and Alex Tuch, to attend the United States Olympic orientation camp. The camp features 44 NHL players. Ultimately, the two Buffalo players deserve the opportunity to represent the U. S. at the 2026 Winter Olympic games in Milano-Cortina Italy. However, they are up against the numbers game.
There are only so many upper-lineup spots available on any roster, including the Olympic team. For this reason, versatility matters. Tuch’s PK ability can specifically help his case. Meanwhile, Thompson scores in bunches often enough to potentially win a Team USA spot.
Thompson a genuine scoring star
The twenty-seven year old Thompson tallied 44 goals and added 28 assists for Buffalo last season. Later, he scored the gold medal winning goal for the United States. His overtime winner delivered a 1-0 win over Switzerland at the 2025 IIHF World Championship. The victory was the first US win at the Tournament since 1993.
The 24-25 Sabres season saw Tuch tally thirty-six goals and thirty-one assists. The 29-year-old Syracuse native was also a top penalty killer for the Sabres last season. He finished tied for the league lead with six shorthanded goals.
Sabres hopefuls and the Olympics numbers game
Six players have already been named to the twenty-five man roster, Jack Eichel, Austin Matthews, Brady Tkachuk, Matthew Tkachuk, Quinn Hughes and Charlie McAvoy. Thompson and Tuch will be looking to secure positions on the U. S. squad with nineteen roster spots remaining.
The off ice orientation event will take place August 26th to 27th in Plymouth, Michigan. A final roster announcement is expected in January. Sabres Captain Rasmus Dahlin has already been chosen for Olympic participation by team Sweden.
The games take place from February 6th to 22nd.
Follow Dave on X: @DaveNHL
On Facebook: Dave.Reichert.98
