Buffalo Sabers 2024-25 Player Projections: Alex Tuch – Hockey Writers – Buffalo Sabers

The 2023-24 season has been a failure in every way for the Buffalo Sabers. The team took a significant step back from being a team that almost made the playoffs in the 2022-23 season. That decline, in part, came as a result of backsliding in key players.

The Sabers have their share of weaknesses going into the season. For players like Alex Tuch, the impact extends beyond the ice. What can we expect from the Syracuse, New York native next season?

How did Tuch fare in 2023-24

On paper, Tuch had a great season. He scored 22 goals and registered 59 points in 75 games. But anyone who saw his performance in 2022-23 and knew what the expectations were going into 2023-24, it was a huge step back.

Tuch had the most goals (36), assists (43), and points (79) in 2022-23 as the Sabers became one of the most exciting teams in the league. Tuch also shot the lights out that season, converting 16.5% of his shots into goals.

The good news is that he was able to shoot 11% or better for the fourth time in his career last season. His time on ice (19:30 per game) was also the highest of his career, showing a deep confidence in his game.

What the Team Needs in Tuch

The team needs him to be the star of the game. Tage Thompson has gotten all the attention for nearly scoring 50 points the past two seasons, but Tuch has been very good. If he can find a way to match or better that output, the Sabers should be a playoff team.

Related: Sabers' IX-Factor Could be Jack Quinn

The Sabers need a few things to go smoothly when they come back. Tuch's outstanding defense and drive to make the team better are clear assets that will go a long way. If he can get back over 30 goals, that would make him a complete package that the team doesn't have otherwise.

Tuch will be tasked with playing in almost every major situation. He will see top line minutes alongside Thompson and whoever fills in on the left side (most likely JJ Peterka.) He will need to be a consistent “partner in crime” to Thompson as the team's two best players.

Above all, the team needs Tuch to lead by example. He is respected in the locker room and could be a top candidate to fill the vacant captain's position if not for defenseman Rasmus Dahlin. Tuch grew up loving the Sabers, the city loved him, and the city loved him back. Just who he is – that's what the Sabers need from him.

2024-25 Projection

The Sabres, as a whole, regressed last season. Part of it was injury-related — Thompson missed half of the season while Jack Quinn and Mattias Samuelsson were out for most of it — and the rest simply regressed in career seasons.

Tuch took on more responsibility in his position, held his own with an 11.5% shooting percentage, and played in all situations. Things should be no different for the 27-year-old heading into the 2024-25 campaign. He and the team know what is at stake. With Lindy Ruff back in town as head coach, we know they'll be getting the proverbial foot in the back.

For those reasons, look for Tuch to have a bounce-back season in 2022-23. He should also play nearly 75 games, topping the 30-goal mark for the second time. Look for him to finish in the 35-45-80 range as he regains the chemistry he and Thompson seemed to lack last season.

A Key Piece Toward Success

It's a tumultuous time to be a part of the organization and Sabers fans. Making the playoffs has become a necessity for both sides. Given his history, Tuch has a unique perspective on being on both sides of the equation. He knows what is at stake and that the time to finally reach the play-offs is now.

Make no mistake: the Sabers need Tuch to be at his best to make the playoffs. His dedication, defensive play, and ability to play high minutes have quietly put him in contention for the most important Sabers. This season, we should see Tuch take a big step forward and help the team get through that.