OTTAWA - Tune out any talk about the Senators bringing back Wade Redden -- who should be expecting one of those compliance buyouts included in the new CBA -- or any other veteran defencemen before the season starts.

As the 2012-13 curtain lifter quickly approaches, they remain committed to their own Group of Seven that has three guys with a combined 18 games of NHL experience.

"Why should there be concern?" Chris Phillips said Tuesday to the suggestion that preview shows will pinpoint Ottawa's green blue line as its Achilles Heel. "Everyone talks about that inexperience all the time, but you look at (Jared) Cowen last year: Young guy, no games, stepped in and played great.

"These guys have been playing in the American League, doing well there. That transition ... there's a bit there, but I think they're ready, comfortable with it. I don't think there's really concern at all."