Buffalo Sabres to reveal 2026 Rick Martin Memorial Award winner on Fan Night
The Buffalo Sabres will soon announce the winner of the Rick Martin Memorial Award, an annual honour given since 2021. This year's recipient will be revealed during Fan Appreciation Night on Wednesday, April 15. The award recognises a player who excels on the ice, shows resilience, and contributes to the community. The Rick Martin Memorial Award was created to honour Rick Martin, a legendary left wing from the Sabres' famous 'French Connection' line. Known as one of the team's greatest goal scorers, Martin's legacy lives on through this award.
Voting is now open and will run until Sunday, March 29. Fans can cast their ballots at Sabres.com/Rico. Three finalists will then be announced in April, leading to a second round of voting before the winner is confirmed.
Past winners include Sam Reinhart in 2021, Kyle Okposo in 2022, and Alex Tuch, who claimed the award three times in 2023, 2024, and 2025. Tuch remains the only player to receive the honour more than once.
The award is presented by Gold Ring Partners: KeyBank, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, and LECOM. The winner will join a select group of players recognised for their skill, determination, and community involvement. The announcement on April 15 will mark the latest chapter in the award's history, celebrating another standout Sabres player.
