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Alex Tuch has become one of the premier power forwards in the NHL. His blend of speed, skill, and physicality makes him an imposing presence for any top six.
Heading into the 2026 off-season, Tuch is likely the most sought-after forward UFA, but opinions on him have changed drastically in the last week or so.
After posting another 30-goal, and high 60’s point season, Tuch looked like a surefire pick to be a $10-million plus free agent signing, but a difficult post-season has opened new discussions.
In round one against the Boston Bruins, Tuch posted four goals and seven points in six games. But against the Montreal Canadiens in round two, Tuch failed to record a point, finished with a minus-6 rating, and wasn’t a physical force either. Everything that made him successful in the regular season evaporated in the second round.
Despite that, Tuch will still be a coveted asset in free agency, and there will be teams lining up to sign him. Today, we’ll look at three teams that could sign the 30-year-old UFA.
Buffalo Sabres
The most obvious answer is the Sabres. He’s spent the last five seasons with the organization and grew up in the Buffalo area. His success as an NHL player has come in Buffalo, and the fans love him.
Tuch has emerged as a leader in Buffalo, and with their blend of youth and experienced players, they are a prime candidate to be contenders for years to come.
While re-signing with Buffalo feels like the most logical outcome, there is still some uncertainty.
MORE: Buffalo Sabres Unsure If Alex Tuch Will Be Back: 'I Don't Know Where His Head's At'
Chicago Blackhawks
The Chicago Blackhawks are another logical destination for Tuch, as they are an up-and-coming team looking to take that next step.
With skilled forwards like Connor Bedard, Anton Frondell, and Frank Nazar, bringing in a 6-foot-4 power forward winger like Tuch would elevate the roster.
His intangibles make him very enticing to the Blackhawks, but his production would be too, as the Hawks have been searching long and hard for a winger for Bedard.
MORE: 3 NHL wingers the Blackhawks should target for Connor Bedard
Toronto Maple Leafs
The Toronto Maple Leafs are in a different situation than the Sabres and the Blackhawks. The Maple Leafs are an established team looking to return to the playoffs after missing the post-season for the first time in nine years.
While with the Blackhawks, Tuch would be brought in as a leader; with the Maple Leafs, they would need him for his production and power-forward traits.
MORE: 3 free agents the Maple Leafs must target to bounce back next season
With Auston Matthews, John Tavares, William Nylander, Matthew Knies, and the first overall pick, adding Tuch would give the Maple Leafs one of the best and most dynamic top sixes in the NHL.
Although Tuch would fit in nicely, signing with the Maple Leafs feels a bit unlikely, as their focus is on adding defenseman to rejuvenate their blueline.
Another team that could be in the mix for Tuch is the Minnesota Wild. Tuch was originally drafted by the Wild in 2014, but they are looking to bring in a center, rather than another winger.
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