Senators off to a rocky start as the Karlsson trade and Pageau injury expecting to affect home opener

Senator players hit the ice Friday trying to keep spirits high after learning they will have to start the season without Captain Erik Karlsson, but it's clear some are unhappy.

“We're not going to sit around and drag our lips and mope and feel sorry for ourselves. There are going to be tough times for sure, it's expected. We've got some great ideas right now and have had some positive meetings. We had a good hard session today. The true test will be what happens when we go on a five game slide,” said Mark Borowiecki.

The lineup took another hit, as Jean Gabriel Pageau sustained a torn Achilles tendon during training. Head Coach Guy Boucher said it may be six months before Pageau can lace up again.

“It's devastating for him and it was for the group yesterday but today is a new day where you have to reload. He would be the first guy to tell all of us to get going because there's not much time before the season starts.”

To a man, players are looking forward to a competitive camp and put the best team on the ice this season.

“We need everyone onboard and for us to be successful we need everyone to push each other,” said Mikkel Boardker.

The Senators kick off a tight six game pre season against the Maple Leafs on Tuesday ahead of the regular season home opener to the Blackhawks October 4th.