Dmitry Orlov, one of the top free agents on the market this summer, has signed a two-year contract with the Carolina Hurricanes.
The 31-year-old defenseman split last season between the Washington Capitals and the Boston Bruins. Prior to the trade, Orlov had spent his entire NHL career with the Caps.
In 66 games last year, he notched 36 points (seven goals and 29 assists) and a plus-12 rating. It was the best offensive season of Orlov’s career, and he continued with that theme in the postseason where he tallied eight points (all assists) in seven games.
Orlov is joining the Hurricanes on a two-year deal.
Now, the 11-year veteran is joining a Carolina squad that is more than ready to win the Stanley Cup. The Canes have been in the mix for several years now, including two Eastern Conference Final appearances, the most recent being this past season.
Unfortunately, the Hurricanes have not found a way to return to the Stanley Cup Final. They will hope that Orlov can help get them over that hump.
According to Elliotte Friedman, the contract between Orlov and the Canes is for two seasons and is worth $7.75 million per year.
Orlov 2x$7.75M in Carolina
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) July 1, 2023
According to CapFriendly, the deal gives Carolina six defensemen under contract to go with 13 forwards and two goaltenders (Antti Raanta and Frederik Andersen were both re-signed earlier in the day). They still have over $7 million in cap space.
The Hurricanes were the top team in the Metropolitan Division last season, and this signing only makes them more formidable. With young, talented teams like the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils hot on their tails, the Canes give themselves some breathing room with this move.
Carolina had the second-best defense in the NHL last season, so this signing doesn’t necessarily fill a need. Although, a team that puts up 113 points in the standings doesn’t have many gaps to fill.
Instead, it gives an already-impressive team a new star that can contribute both offensively and defensively. This is a great addition for the Canes and a great opportunity for Orlov.