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Camp Notebook | Adams and Ruff address the media | Buffalo Sabres

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Wednesday, September 17th 2025 at 18:28 GMT by National Hockey League
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Buffalo Sabres Gear Up for the 2025 Training Camp: Key Players, Contract Talks, and Injury Updates

The Buffalo Sabres are marching into the 2025 training camp with a clear agenda: solidify a roster that can make a deep playoff run, address lingering contract uncertainties, and recover from a slate of injuries that have hampered the team’s performance in recent seasons. Head coach Lindy Ruff and general manager Kevyn Adams have set the tone with a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talent, all while navigating the delicate dance of contract negotiations and player health.

A Focused Roster Under Lindy Ruff

The Sabres’ coaching staff, anchored by Lindy Ruff, returned to the rink for a full summer of training in front of a select group of players who earned invitations to the camp. Ruff, who has already steered the team through two consecutive seasons in the NHL, emphasized the need for both veteran leadership and fresh legs. “We’re not looking for a short‑term fix,” Ruff told reporters after the opening day of camp. “We’re building a culture that can sustain success over the next few years.”

Ruff’s strategy hinges on a core group of the team’s brightest stars. Alex Tuch, the Sabres’ top-line scorer, has been in a contract limbo that has sparked significant media speculation. With his contract approaching its final year, Tuch’s negotiations have been a topic of intense interest. The Sabres and Tuch’s agent have been in ongoing talks, with both parties looking to strike a balance between a “mutually beneficial” contract and the franchise’s budgetary constraints. While no final deal has yet been announced, the camp’s early days were marked by discussions about how the team might accommodate Tuch’s financial expectations without undermining the rest of the salary cap space.

Contract Negotiations with Alex Georgiev

Another front‑line center in the spotlight is Alex Georgiev. The 26‑year‑old, known for his gritty play and face‑off prowess, has been in a similar contractual limbo as Tuch. Sabres’ front office, led by Kevyn Adams, has been negotiating a long‑term deal with Georgiev, aiming to secure the player’s services for a few more seasons. “We’ve had productive conversations,” Adams said. “We’re committed to giving Alex the contract he deserves.” The camp’s early practice sessions showcased Georgiev’s impressive speed and skill, fueling speculation that the team could lock him down for the next several years.

Injury Update: Ukko‑Pekka Luukkonen

Ukko‑Pekka Luukkonen entered the camp with a lingering lower‑body injury that has raised concerns about his readiness for the upcoming season. The 22‑year‑old right‑winger had played just 14 games last season before an injury forced him out for the remainder of the campaign. Medical staff confirmed that Luukkonen is making steady progress, but the team has been cautious in allowing him to return to full training. “We’re giving him time to heal properly,” said head of player development. “We don’t want to rush him.” The Sabres are watching closely as Luukkonen’s recovery could impact the team’s depth at the center position.

Emerging Talent: Alex and Jordan Greenway

The Sabres’ scouting department has identified a new duo of prospects, both named Alex, whose combined talent could make a significant splash. Alex (likely a nickname or shortened name for a younger player on the Sabres’ affiliate) and Jordan Greenway were highlighted during camp as standout performers. Greenway, the 20‑year‑old center, had a strong finish in the AHL last season and showcased impressive offensive skills and strong defensive awareness. The Sabres’ coaching staff have been closely monitoring his performance, hoping to secure a spot on the main roster or at least lock him into a two‑way contract.

Program Structure and Goals

The training camp spans a comprehensive four‑week program designed to test the team’s depth, evaluate new contracts, and iron out injuries. Key components include:

• Daily Skating and Conditioning Drills: Focused on stamina, speed, and agility.
• Skill‑Specific Work Sessions: Targeting shooting accuracy, puck handling, and defensive positioning.
• Practice Games: Intra‑team scrimmages to evaluate line combinations and line chemistry.
• Physical Therapy Sessions: For injured players like Luukkonen, ensuring safe return to full activity.

Head coach Ruff emphasized that the program’s goal is not only to build a competitive roster but also to foster teamwork and resilience. “The environment here is about learning and growing together,” Ruff remarked. “We’re looking for players who can handle adversity and elevate each other.”

Looking Ahead

The Sabres’ front office remains focused on solidifying key contract negotiations while maintaining depth throughout the roster. Tuch and Georgiev represent the franchise’s current core, while prospects such as Greenway add fresh firepower. The injury status of players like Luukkonen will remain a pivotal variable as the team moves toward the preseason.

As the Sabres’ training camp unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the pieces fall into place. The interplay of veteran leadership, rising prospects, and contract realities will define the Sabres’ journey as they aim for a playoff berth in the 2025–26 season.

For real‑time updates on the Sabres’ training camp and contract negotiations, stay tuned to the official NHL.com Sabres news page.