Couture criticizes Meier, Labanc for 'selfish play' on Sabres' OT goal

Logan Couture didn't reference Timo Meier and Kevin Labanc by name after Tuesday's overtime loss to the Buffalo Sabres, but the San Jose Sharks captain made it clear he wasn't happy with their decision that preceded the game-winning goal.

"Just an inexcusable change. Two guys that stayed out too long looking for offense," Couture told reporters afterward. "It's a selfish play that doesn't need to be part of this team, so we'll figure that out."

Meier and Labanc were both on the ice for nearly 90 seconds of the extra frame (1:28 and 1:22, respectively) before going off with the Sabres controlling the puck and pushing to enter the Sharks' defensive zone.

Couture and Joe Thornton came over the boards to replace them, but it was too late, as Brent Burns was forced to defend a two-on-one that led to Jack Eichel's winner for Buffalo.

Couture clarified to TSN's John Lu on Wednesday that he spoke to Meier and Labanc before meeting the media postgame, adding, "I think those guys will learn from it."

For his part, Meier took responsibility for the error.

"Me and Kevin obviously know that we made a mistake, that's how it is," he said. "I think we're man enough to stand up to that and own up to our mistakes. Things happen, and you try to learn from it and do a better job next time."

Both Meier and Labanc have struggled to find their footing on the offensive end so far this season. They've each collected two goals and two assists in nine games.

On July 1, Meier inked a four-year contract extension reportedly worth $24 million following a 66-point campaign. One week later, Labanc signed a one-year deal for a reported $1 million on the heels of his 56-point output in 2018-19.