Karlsson, who has been practicing since Sept. 23, did not skate Thursday with his teammates, but Senators general manager Pierre Dorion said there is a chance Karlsson could play Saturday against the Detroit Red Wings at Canadian Tire Centre.
Defenseman Mark Borowiecki said the Senators must adjust to play without Karlsson, who has led Ottawa in scoring the past four seasons.
"I don't think you want to be playing outside of yourself and searching for aspects of Karl's game to add into yours," Borowiecki said. "I think that's just silly. Just stick to your strengths and play that much harder, that much tighter."
The Capitals have won the Presidents Trophy the past two seasons with a veteran team, but after a series of offseason changes, coach Barry Trotz said it's going to take some time for them to find their way.
Washington traded forward Marcus Johansson, 26, to the New Jersey Devils for two picks in the 2018 NHL Draft, and forward Justin Williams, 36, was signed as a free agent by the Carolina Hurricanes on July 1. Trotz said he is looking for players to take their place.
"Those are real key pieces, especially in our top six, and allowed everybody to play lower against lesser competition in the third and fourth hole," Trotz said. "When those top players move on, you're looking for guys to step up."
Trotz said he is hoping forward Andre Burakovsky, 22, can replace Johansson and rookie forward Jakub Vrana, 21, can replace Williams' production.
"I think that's the evolution of most teams and that's the salary cap era," Trotz said.
