Insider: Bruins Showing Trade Interest In Former 36-Goal Scorer

The Boston Bruins reportedly have inquired about the availability of a star power forward from a division rival.

Boston entered the season intending to compete for a playoff spot, and the Bruins got off to a hot start. Now, NHL insider James Murphy of RG.org has reported that Boston has checked in with the Buffalo Sabres on Alex Tuch.

“Buffalo is listening on Alex Tuch,” a source told RG.org on Wednesday. “From what I know, the Bruins and Oilers have inquired, along with a couple of other teams.”

Tuch is entering the final year of his seven-year, $33.25 million deal. With Tuch in the final year of his deal, if the Sabres are out of playoff contention, he will be one of the most sought-after players on the trade front.

Yet another NHL source told Murphy that it’s likely that Buffalo won’t trade Tuch until after the Olympic break in February.

“I think this is more around the Olympic break (Feb. 6-25), or the NHL Trade Deadline (March 6),” the source said of when Buffalo may trade Tuch. “The pressure is on for Adams to make the playoffs, so unless they’re completely out of it, he’s not trading away one of his best players and leaders.

“Plus, Tuch has made it clear he wants to stay. If they’re still in it, then if he’s not signed, Adams could just make him an internal playoff rental. But that won’t stop teams from calling.”

Tuch is in his fifth season with the Sabres. He’s from Syracuse and has said he wants to re-sign, but if a deal isn’t made, a trade is likely.

Tuch scored 36 goals last season, tying his career-high.