Capitals' Orlov 'tired of practice,' ready for games after missing last season
Dmitry Orlov can't wait to play.
The Washington Capitals defenseman, who missed the entire 2014-15 NHL season due to a wrist injury and subsequent surgery, is back on the ice with his teammates in advance of training camp.
While Orlov saw three games of AHL action (recording three assists) on a conditioning stint near the end of last season, he wasn't quite ready to jump back up to the big club for the NHL playoffs.
Now that his wrist is feeling better, Orlov told CSN Washington he's more than ready to get back into game action.
"Of course it's nice (to be skating), but honestly, I'm really tired (of) practice because the last year and a half I only practice, so I can't wait for games."
The 24-year-old appeared in 119 games for the Capitals since he was drafted in the second round back in 2009. He remains under contract for one season at a cap hit of $2 million and is set to become a restricted free agent next summer.
As such, he'll be looked upon to fill a big role on a team that is seeking to assert itself as a bona fide Stanley Cup contender.