"I don't think that we look at picking up where we left off because it's a new year and everybody starts at zero," defenseman Dion Phaneuf said. "For us to pick up where we left off, that's a long way down the road. But I do believe we learned a lot and we grew a lot as a group, and we're going to take that experience and use it and build on it. There's a lot of work to be done. We understand that. I think we're ready for that challenge."
Not only are the Senators tasked with overcoming Karlsson's absence but also injuries to forwards Derick Brassard and Clarke MacArthur.
Karlsson, a two-time Norris Trophy winner as the NHL's top defenseman, has no timetable to return after having surgery to repair tendons in his left foot on June 14. He skated for the first time since the procedure on Sept. 23, but coach Guy Boucher said he didn't want to get too excited about Karlsson taking his second step.
Brassard, who had shoulder surgery June 6, may not be ready for the start of the season. MacArthur, who was expected to be a top-six forward and provide veteran leadership, failed his physical at training camp and has dealt with post-concussion syndrome the past two seasons. Rookie forward Colin White was expected to challenge for a roster spot but broke his wrist blocking a shot in a preseason game and is out until November.
Here is a look at the five keys for the Senators, the inside scoop on their roster questions and projected lines for the 2017-18 season:
