Capitals’ Orlov Says ‘There Are No Problems’ Returning From Russia

Following the 2021-22 campaign, Washington Capitals defenseman Dmitry Orlov returned home to Russia for the offseason, where he would spend time with family, train for the upcoming season and play some charity matches. And now, he’s getting ready to return to the United States.

Orlov told sports.ru that he plans to return to North America at the end of August. He doesn’t see any concern regarding his ability to get back safely.

“There are no problems,” he said in the interview.

There have been some concerns surrounding Russian players and their ability to return to the States following Ivan Fedotov‘s detainment and allegations against Kirill Kaprizov.

Fedotov, a Philadelphia Flyers goaltending prospect, announced earlier in the season that he would leave CSKA Moscow for Philly in 2022-23. CSKA Moscow reportedly has close ties to the Russian military. In early July, authorities detained Fedotov at a St. Petersburg ice rink for allegedly evading military service and took him to an enlistment office. Fedotov fell ill, and an ambulance rushed him to the hospital. Authorities then transported him to a Naval arctic base to train for deployment.

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After that, Kaprizov was allegedly wanted in Russia for purchasing a fake military ID back in 2017. He twice tried to enter the U.S. this summer through Dubai but couldn’t get in because he did not have his work visa. He ultimately returned to Russia. Kaprizov reportedly returned to the U.S. this week and is safe in Minnesota. Also, allegations against him were unfounded, per The Athletic’s Michael Russo.

Per Russian law, men between 18-27 must serve at least one year in the armed forces. However, Kaprizov is a student and therefore, can defer service.

The 31-year-old blueliner is coming off a career year that saw him set new individual highs in goals (12) and points (35), and also had 94 blocks and 124 hits. His 7.7 point shares ranked third on the Capitals, and his +/- of plus-25 ranked second. He and Nick Jensen formed a key shutdown pairing for Washington this past season.

Heading into the new season, Orlov said he has been training hard. He feels confident heading back to Washington for his 11th season with the Capitals.

“I feel good physically, I’ve been training for a long time,” Orlov said. “I am satisfied with [my] current form, although you need to lose a couple of extra plans. Preparations are going according to plan.”