Orlov will play with John Carlson to start the season, J.J. Reagan of CSN Washington reports.

EDGE Analysis

The move is a promotion for Orlov, who was used as a third-pairing defenseman when the Capitals had a healthy cohort of blueliners last season. But his solid play while John Carlson and Brooks Orpik both missed time last season has given head coach Barry Trotz confidence the 25-year-old Russian can handle a top-four role to start the season. Signed to a one-year deal, the second-round pick from the 2009 Draft now has the opportunity to have a fine campaign alongside one of the league's best defensemen if he can stick in the top-four role and garner some power play time. His value has just increased in standard formats, and he is definitely worth drafting in deeper leagues.