Sabres fan favorite Alex Tuch gets Rick Martin Memorial Award

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - - A Sabres advocate in his youth, Alex Tuch has actually created a familial bond with the group's fanbase since coming to Buffalo in a November 2021 trade involving the previous face of the franchise Jack Eichel.

Tuch's preferred status in Sabreland was highlighted prior to Thursday night's home ending at KeyBank Center when he was presented with the Rick Martin Memorial Award. The top-line winger is the third recipient of the award voted on by fans to recognize the Sabres player who "best shows on-ice quality, resiliency, and dedication to the neighborhood."

" The Rico" trophy existed in a short pregame ceremony to Tuch by Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams, COO John Roth, and the Sabres' Fan of the Year winner, original season ticket-holder William Ziter.

The 26-year-old Tuch has had a profession year in his very first complete season with the Sabres, with 35 objectives and 78 points through his very first 73 video games. The Baldwinsville native also has actually made an effect in the community, going to with and contributing tickets to various companies such as Carly's Club, Best Buddies, GiGi's Playhouse, and the Make Lemonaide Foundation for CP.

" He embodies Buffalo," stated Chris Polisoto in a video tribute. Polisoto belongs to the Buffalo Sabres Thunder hockey group for athletes with developmental impairments to which Tuch presented jerseys previously this season.

A video montage of fans representing the causes Tuch has supported was revealed during the 2nd intermission.

Tuch was one of three finalists for "The Rico," in addition to last year's winner, captain Kyle Okposo, and All-Star defenseman Rasmus Dahlin. The very first recipient of the award was Sam Reinhart.

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Jonah Bronstein signed up with the News 4 roster in 2022 as a digital sports press reporter. Find out more of his work here.