via Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun,

“I definitely think if the players step up to the plate we can surprise some people,” said Dorion when asked if the Senators can be a playoff team next spring? “The worst is behind, I’ve said that many times, and, at the same time, we’re going to put the onus on them and this coaching staff to see where this team can be at the end of the year.”

Dorion said there’s a lot to be excited about with the changes that were made.

“This is definitely something new for us,” Dorion said. “It’s my fourth year being GM here and we’ve had some ups and some downs, but with the new players we brought in we’ve got a new enthusiasm with this group and we’re really excited about the coaching staff we’ve put together and we can’t wait for it to start Friday.”