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Senators' Erik Karlsson: Progressing well

Brennan noted that Karlsson "looks like his old self," which is a huge development for the elite rearguard, who toughed out multiple foot injuries in the postseason, but wound up having corrective surgery on the left foot in mid-June. A two-time Norris Trophy winner, Karlsson added 71 points (17 goals, 54 assists) in 77 games to complement 27 power-play points last regular season.

Senators' Erik Karlsson: Recovery going to plan

Following the operation, a timeline of four months was announced for Karlsson's return, which would land a little more than a week after Opening Night. Karlsson certainly doesn't have to worry about battling for a roster spot, so expect him and the team to be cautious with his health. Even if Karlsson is to miss a half-dozen games at the outset of the campaign, he should still be one of the top two defensemen coming off the board in fantasy drafts.

Senators' Erik Karlsson: Out four months after foot surgery

As a testament to his toughness and determination during the Stanley Cup playoffs, the elite defenseman reportedly played through a pair of foot fractures and sustained muscle damage to his ankle. A four-month recovery could cause Karlsson to get off to a bit of a late start next season, as the Senators won't be taking any more chances with his ailment; he's far too important to the club and will cost $6.5 million annually through the 2018-19 campaign. It's early, so we don't yet see the need to bump Karlsson far down in the rankings, but this latest development just might be enough to consider drafting San Jose's Brent Burns ahead of him.

Senators' Erik Karlsson: Played through multiple injuries in playoffs

With 18 points in 19 playoff games, some have joked that Karlsson should always play injured. With a few months to recuperate, he should be back to full strength by the time the 2017-18 season gets underway in October.

Senators' Erik Karlsson: Two points not enough in Game 7 loss

Karlsson assisted on a second-period goal by Mark Stone and a third-period tally by Ryan Dzingel, both of which came within three minutes of Pittsburgh pulling ahead. There was no chance to answer the Penguins' third goal, though, as Chris Kunitz's tally 5:09 into the second overtime ended the game on the spot. The Senators' captain finishes the postseason with two goals and 16 assists in 19 games.