Orlov is a candidate to open the season as a regular member of the Capitals' third defensive pairing.

EDGE Analysis

Since making a splash with the Capitals in his NHL debut season of 2011-12 with three goals and 19 points in 60 games, Orlov has known nothing but frustration since then. Due to the 2012-13 lockout and complications from May 2014 wrist surgery, Orlov has logged just 59 games with the Capitals in the last three years, with none of those coming last season. Now finally healthy and still just 24 years old, Orlov could be a potential breakout candidate for the Capitals, who are hoping he can assume some of the offensive burden left by Mike Green's offseason departure.