Sabres trade Tuch and Byram for fourth overall pick

Alex Tuch departed Buffalo for an eight-year, 84 million dollar deal with the Washington Capitals after negotiations stalled on June 24.

Tuch departure triggers chain of moves

GM Jarmo Kekäläinen notified media of the decision to part ways before the sign-and-trade to Washington was finalized. Tuch receives 10.5 million dollars annually over eight years. Buffalo receives a third-round pick from the Capitals as part of the transaction. The Sabres had extended Zach Benson seven years at 7.5 million dollars per season immediately prior.

Dave Pagnotta of The Fourth Period stated on Sirius XM that Buffalo remained active after the Tuch deal. Pagnotta noted the team sought forward and defensive additions while connected to Vincent Trocheck and Brandon Carlo. Kekäläinen indicated multiple irons remained in the fire.

The prolonged talks reduced the chance of Tuch accepting Buffalo’s offer. By moving him the Sabres cleared 10.5 million dollars in cap space. Washington gained an immediate top-six forward while committing long-term.

Byram and Greenway deals yield high draft capital

Buffalo sent Bowen Byram and Jordan Greenway to Chicago for the fourth overall pick in the 2026 draft. The Blackhawks receive established NHL defensemen in return. Buffalo also acquired the 20th overall pick from San Jose for Michael Kesselring.

These exchanges netted two first-round selections in a single day. The fourth overall pick carries premium value for a franchise prioritizing young talent. Pagnotta confirmed the Sabres would either use the pick or shop it for immediate roster help.

Kekäläinen contrasted the prior approach of retaining core veterans with the current emphasis on draft assets. The 20th overall selection adds mid-first-round depth. Chicago gains defensive stability while Buffalo gains lottery positioning.

Remaining activity ahead of draft

Pagnotta assessed that Buffalo would likely add at least one more forward or defenseman before the draft opens. Toronto’s situation with Brandon Carlo creates a potential target. The Sabres hold flexibility with newly acquired cap space and picks.

The fourth overall selection gives Buffalo leverage in trade discussions. A last-minute swap could still occur before June 26. Kekäläinen’s activity level signals further roster turnover remains probable.