The Buffalo Sabres have officially commenced their 2025-26 training camp, marking the beginning of a fresh season filled with renewed hope and expectations. The team's initial training camp roster consists of 61 players, including 32 forwards, 21 defensemen, and eight goaltenders, all vying for a coveted spot on the final 23-man roster.

Roster and First Impressions

General Manager Kevyn Adams and Head Coach Lindy Ruff addressed the media, followed by player physicals, marking the official commencement of the camp. On-ice sessions began the next day. Shortly after, the team announced that four 2025 draft picks Matous Kucharcik, Ashton Schultz, Melvin Novotny, and Ryan Rucinski were sent back to their respective USHL clubs, while Luke Dragusica was returned to the OHL’s Brampton Steelheads.

Lindy Ruff has already identified some players who have impressed him early on. Zac Jones, a free-agent signing from the New York Rangers, has been described as a "sneaky good player" with good skating and puck-moving abilities. Ruff's praise suggests that Jones could be in contention for a roster spot, potentially challenging Jacob Bryson.

Tuch's Contract and Thompson's Shift

One of the main topics at the start of training camp was contract negotiations with winger Alex Tuch. General Manager Kevyn Adams has stated that the organization has clearly communicated to Tuch how important he is to the team and that they want him there long term. Tuch has also expressed that he wants to remain in Buffalo. With the salary cap expected to increase, Tuch is in a strong negotiating position and could ask for a salary exceeding Tage Thompson's $7.14 million AAV or even Josh Norris's nearly $8 million salary.

Tage Thompson, is transitioning back to his original position of center. After battling injuries last season, the Sabres coaching staff eased him from defensive duties. The change may allow Alex Tuch to be promoted to the top line alongside Thompson.

Goaltending and Defense

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is starting training camp with a lower-body injury. In response, the Sabres signed Alexandar Georgiev to a one-year deal. Devon Levi may receive a promotion from the AHL.

Lindy Ruff has praised the team's defensive depth, particularly highlighting the pairing of Mattias Samuelsson and offseason acquisition Connor Timmins. Samuelsson has apparently arrived at camp in excellent physical condition, while Timmins is considered a solid and mature defenseman.

Ruff's Vision

Head coach Lindy Ruff emphasized the need for the team to be harder to play against. After the first practice, Ruff spoke about the importance of changing some of the ways they played. Ruff believes the team needs to defend better and avoid breakdowns during games and also noted the team has a new strength and conditioning coach.