Blue Jackets GM: Team's effort after winless start is 'off the rails'

Jarmo Kekalainen can't believe his eyes.

The Columbus Blue Jackets general manager witnessed his club get off to an 0-3-0 start to the regular season, causing him to wonder what has changed since their strong training camp.

"I'm surprised how, in just five days, we've gone from a very confident group to something that's the opposite of that," Kekalainen told Aaron Portzline of The Dispatch on Tuesday. "Our confidence, our game … it's off the rails right now.

"There's no excuse for how we played in Buffalo (losing 4-2 on Monday). No excuse. Every team in this league is a good team, but there's no excuse to come out with an effort like that, to go off the rails, so far from the way we're supposed to be playing."

Expectations were heightened in Columbus after a nice run to end 2014-15, as well as the notable addition of Brandon Saad. Questions remained on the back end, however, and they've proven to be prudent ones in light of the 13 goals allowed through three games.

For his part, Kekalainen said everyone involved with the club is responsible for the poor start.

"We're all accountable, from front office to coaches to players," Kekalainen said. "Todd Richards is a good coach. The guys in the room have to play better.

"There aren't a lot of guys in that group that have played up to their expectations, right? We have many guys playing below expectations, below the bar. Well, it's hard to be good as a team when you're not playing well as individuals."

Columbus' next chance to earn a win will come Wednesday against the Ottawa Senators.