I think the Sens may win the division, but will finish no worse than seventh.
Murray is clearly rebuilding the Anaheim franchise in Ottawa. A few top-end skilled players, a big defence, decent goaltending, and good character players are what he is hoping for here. By bringing in depth that will not hurt the team (Carkner, Bell, Richardson, Isbister) when they play, the Sens are better suited for a long playoff run.
Does Proteau have a point? Absolutely. I do not anticipate a great start for the Sens, but I think they will find their rhythm by Christmas time. There are too many new players in a new system this fall, and there are bound to be hiccups. The team's pre-season play leaves them at 3-2, but they still have a long way to go. I am glad they only have one game between Oct. 6-16. The Sens season doesn't really get underway until October 17th.