Dahlin: Struggling Sabres need to play 'more desperate'

The Buffalo Sabres suffered another ugly defeat Thursday night, and captain Rasmus Dahlin believes their nonchalant approach is costing them.

"They came out hungrier than us, simple as that," Dahlin said after the 6-4 loss, per Mike Harrington of The Buffalo News. "We've got to win our battles. We've got to play a little bit more desperate. I have to be better."

The Sabres also allowed six goals in Pittsburgh on Wednesday and are averaging four goals against per game so far.

While defense and goaltending have attracted most of the negative attention in Buffalo this season, the Sabres' attack drew the ire of head coach Lindy Ruff after not registering a shot attempt in the opening 10 minutes against Columbus.

"They won more battles," Ruff said. "Talked to the team about that after the first period. They (the Blue Jackets) were quicker, they were stronger on pucks.

"Starting a game like that, there's no excuse for it."

The Sabres entered the season with high expectations to end an NHL-worst 13-year playoff drought but currently sit seventh in the Atlantic Division with three points and a 1-4-1 record.

Before back-to-back losses this week, Dahlin fought teammate Peyton Krebs during practice. Both players and Ruff said the incident wasn't anything to be concerned about.

Buffalo returns to action Saturday against the Chicago Blackhawks.