Breaking: Karlsson's status is determined for season opener

After much speculation, it has finally been determined that Erik Karlsson will not participate in the Ottawa Senators' season opening matchup tonight against the Washington Capitals.

Karlsson played through a leg injury during last year's playoffs and required surgery in the offseason to repair it. It was reported recently that the doctors removed half of an ankle bone in the process, which affected his ability to get his skating strides back in full working order.

It was fairly evident that he would not begin the season, but general manager Pierre Dorion expressed the possibility of his star defenseman making a return tonight.

Ultimately it was nothing more than a wish; the Sens will have to fend off the defending President Trophy winners without their blue line stud.