NHL Rumors: Ex-Sabres GM Kevyn Adams accused of leaking Alex Tuch asking price amid contract talks

Former Buffalo Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams is facing criticism after a report suggested he leaked Alex Tuch’s contract demands. The claim surfaced following Adams’ dismissal on Monday amid renewed talks between the Sabres and Tuch’s camp. The situation has added tension to an already sensitive negotiation.

During an appearance on TSN OverDrive, insider Darren Dreger discussed the ripple effects of Adams’ actions. Dreger suggested the former GM shared that Tuch was seeking more than Adrian Kempe’s $10.625 million annual salary.

"To your point, Brian [Hayes], you know, general managers don't get fired in-season very often," Dreger said. "And it's difficult when you come in in-season to manage any sort of significant change, right? You can look at the Alex Tuch negotiation. All right, well, that's pretty obvious.

"You know, he's got his own view, I'm sure, Yarmo, on the value of Alex Tuch. I mean, the former general manager shared that Tuch was looking for money that was just beyond Adrian Kempe. So Kempe is what, ten point six on his extension in LA? So is that enough to make Alex Tuch a legitimate trade bait target between now and March sixth? Maybe. So stuff like that is, I think, where he starts to sink his teeth into."

Adams was fired after more than five seasons without a playoff appearance. Buffalo finished no higher than 19th during his tenure and extended its drought to 14 years.

Meanwhile, Tuch remains one of Buffalo’s most dependable forwards this season. He has posted 11 goals and 17 assists in 31 games. He plays heavy minutes, draws tough matchups, and brings physical edge. His consistency has stood out during the team's inconsistency this season.

The Sabres sit at 14-14-4 and eighth in the Atlantic Division. Veterans like Tuch have carried much of the load.

Alex Tuch's contract extension now depends on Jarmo Kekalainen

With Adams gone, new GM Jarmo Kekalainen has reopened contract talks with Alex Tuch. The winger is eligible for an extension and becomes a UFA after the 2025-26 season.

Meanwhile, Kekalainen wants to make Buffalo a championship team, saying

"We're not just here to make the playoffs, we're here to try to build a championship team," Kekalainen said about the Sabres onTuesday. "Winning the Cup is the goal."

But for that, Kekalainen will have to secure Tuch on a long-term contract to keep the forward depth. Tuch holds a five-team no-trade clause, giving him leverage. So, for Buffalo, the coming weeks will shape both the roster and the direction of the rebuild.