REPORT: Orlov Extension Not Coming ‘Any Time Soon,’ Term A ‘Significant Issue’

With the trade deadline just weeks away and the team carrying 12 pending free agents, the Washington Capitals face several questions while continuing the playoff push, and one of those is Dmitry Orlov.

Per The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun, the Capitals have been discussing an extension with Orlov, who will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. However, the discussions haven't gone according to plan so far.

"It sounds like term is a significant issue," LeBrun wrote. "Unless one side or the other softens, there won't be an extension any time soon."

Through 41 games this season, Orlov has three goals and 16 assists and a +/- rating of plus-5. He has been taking on the role of the Capitals' No. 1 blueliner and eating big minutes with John Carlson on the long-term injured reserve after taking a slapshot to the face back on Dec. 23. The Russian is coming off a six-year extension he signed with the team back in 2017.

READ MORE ON WHN: Brian MacLellan Discussses Washington Capitals' Trade Plans

Looking at Washington's blue line situation, Carlson is the only defender signed through the end of this season, as the seven other defensemen on the roster are pending UFAs and RFAs.

Despite being far apart in conversations so far, LeBrun said that Orlov's name hasn't come in trade talks, and that the team wants him to be a part of the team's run for the postseason. Still, nothing's out of the realm of possibility, especially with general manager Brian MacLellan likely to make last-minute decisions based on where the Capitals are health-wise and standings-wise. Still, LeBrun believes that Washington will add, not sell at the deadline.