Orlov Anticipated Retiring With Capitals; Seeking Long Contract In Free Agency

Six months ago, former Washington Capitals defenseman Dmitry Orlov expected to stick in the nation’s capital indefinitely.

“I had been with the club for 11 years and hadn’t played anywhere except Capitals,” Orlov told Russian media outlet Sport Express on Thursday, according to a DeepL-generated translation. “I was ready to spend my whole career in this team. But it didn’t turn out that way.”

After being dealt to the Boston Bruins in February, Orlov’s stint in Washington came to a close — for now. With the Bruins handcuffed by the salary cap, Orlov is set to hit free agency next month as one of the top blue liners available on the market.

At 31-years old, Orlov is fresh off a season in which he tallied 85 blocks and 137 hits. The Athletic projects him as the only “top-end talent” on the market at any position, and he’s expected to command a five year, $6 million AAV deal, according to Evolving Hockey.

Sam Bennett takes his own stick up high after being hit hard by Dmitry Orlov behind the Boston net#TimeToHunt | #NHLBruins pic.twitter.com/YOEIXm93lE

— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights (@HockeyDaily365) May 1, 2023

Orlov told reporters in May that his agent would explore a return to Washington and that he does not think it will work out, “but we’ll see.”

A Capitals’ reunion with Orlov would not only provide the team with a top-line defender, but an experienced veteran to mentor 23-year-olds Martin Fehervary and Rasmus Sandin. The team faces an uphill battle if the two sides pursue a deal however, considering that one was not made prior to Orlov being dealt to Boston.

“Of course, I’d like a long contract, it gives stability and peace of mind,” Orlov said. “But there are a lot of nuances, you can’t account for everything.”