MacLellan: Struggle to Re-sign Orlov Based On Role With Team Going Forward

Photo: @CapitalsPR

The Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan met with the media Friday afternoon at Kettler Capitals Iceplex. Among the topics he covered was the struggle to re-sign Dmitry Orlov and the plan to add a 14th forward.

When asked about why re-signing defenseman Dmitry Orlov took so long, MacLellan indicated the primary issue in coming to terms with the Orlov camp was Orlov’s role with the team going forward.

And MacLellan said Caps would've preferred two-year term with Orlov.

— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) September 23, 2016

Orlov ultimately signed a one-year deal with the Capitals on Wednesday, September 21st. Barring a miraculous season, Orlov will likely be “unprotected” in next years expansion draft.

MacLellan also discussed roster plans for the start of the season, in response to his original statement about wanting to sign a 14th forward.

Despite proximity to cap ceiling, MacLellan says the plan now is to carry 23, likely a 14th forward. Will reevaluate as things go along.

— Tarik El-Bashir (@TarikCSN) September 23, 2016

MacLellan said plan is to carry 23 players to start season and "get familiar" with a deserving prospect.

— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) September 23, 2016

Assistant coach Todd Reirden, filling in for Barry Trotz, also met with the media following the morning practice.

Reirden said the American Caps who were at the World Cup will be back on the ice on Monday.

— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) September 23, 2016

Reirden said Alzner looked good in drills, but team held him out of conditioning skate as precaution. Alzner will participate in preseason.

— Tarik El-Bashir (@TarikCSN) September 23, 2016

By Jon Sorensen