Why did the Sabres trade Alex Tuch?

Sabres GM Jarmo Kekäläinen indicated the team did not expect to re-sign Tuch, making a sign-and-trade the optimal way to extract value. The return—Kampf and a 2027 third—fits Buffalo’s rebuild timeline.

What did the Capitals get in the deal?

Washington acquired David Kampf, a veteran forward with playoff experience, and a third-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft. Kampf’s familiarity with the team’s systems was a key factor.

How many points did Tuch and Kampf each record last season?

Tuch tallied 19 points in 51 games for Buffalo. Kampf managed six points in 40 games, split between Vancouver and Washington.

Is this a sign-and-trade?

Yes. Tuch was an unrestricted free agent, so Buffalo signed him to a one-year deal before immediately trading him to Washington, allowing the Capitals to gain cap compliance.

What’s next for the Sabres after this trade?

Buffalo will continue reshaping its roster ahead of free agency, with the 2027 draft pick adding to its long-term asset base. The focus shifts to retaining other pending UFAs and addressing defensive needs.

How does this trade fit into Washington’s roster plans?

The Capitals are balancing playoff contention with roster flexibility. Kampf’s playoff experience and locker-room presence provide immediate depth without a long-term cap hit, aligning with GM Don Granato’s strategy of targeted veteran signings.

Sabres ship Tuch to Capitals for Kampf, 2027 third-rounder

Buffalo moves on from pending UFA Tuch, lands short-term Kampf plus a future asset as free agency reshapes the roster.

ByKostadin Stamboliev1 sourcePublished Jun 30, 10:40 AM

Sabres ship Tuch to Capitals for Kampf, 2027 third-rounder

The Buffalo Sabres have traded pending unrestricted free agent forward Alex Tuch to the in exchange for forward David Kampf and a third-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft. Tuch, who arrived in Buffalo via a 2021 trade from Vegas, leaves after five seasons with the Sabres, where he registered 164 points in 299 games. Washington gains a veteran forward with playoff experience, while Buffalo clears cap space ahead of free agency.

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