In a release, the Washington Capitals announced that Russian defenseman Dmitry Orlov has signed a six-year, 30.6 million dollar deal.

Orlov solidified his role as one of the top #3 defenseman on the team. The 25-year-old has played in 283 regular season games with the Caps and has recorded 20 goals and 73 assists. He has been an astounding +38 since joining the Capitals full-time during the 2015-2016 season.

BREAKING! @orlov_09 is staying put! more years with Washington!
Details: https://t.co/nsMp6uJXeh#RockTheRed pic.twitter.com/oSnRLsu4cr

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) June 30, 2017

Orlov joined Washington’s AHL-affiliate, the Hershey Bears, in 2010-2011 after completing his fourth season with Novokuznetsk Metallurg in the KHL. Originally drafted by the Capitals in the 2nd round (# 55 overall) of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, Orlov has also appeared in 24 playoff games for the Capitals, recording four assists.

RELEASE: #Caps Re-sign Dmitry Orlov https://t.co/R0hNvIzN00

— CapitalsPR (@CapitalsPR) June 30, 2017

TSN’s Bob McKenzie took to Twitter to break down the contract.

Orlov’s yr-by-yr breakdown: $6.5M, $6.5M, $6.5M, $4.5M, $3.3, $3.3M. $12M in signing bonus, $18.6M in salary. 5-team NTC starts in 19-20.

— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) June 30, 2017

As JJ Regan of CSN explains via Twitter, Orlov’s prior negotiations probably played a big part in him signing quickly.

Orlov did not enjoy the mental strain in last year’s long negotiation. Not surprising to see him re-signed by June. #Caps

— JJ Regan (@JJReganCSN) June 30, 2017

However you look at it, the contract definitely shows that the Caps have locked up their Russian defenseman for the foreseeable future.

Orlov took to social media mid-day on Friday and thanked the Capitals and Caps Nation.

“I’m so happy to stay in Washington!!!! Love our fans and team. Can’t wait for next year!!!!”… https://t.co/5pY4OJrQ1q

— Dmitry Orlov (@orlov_09) June 30, 2017

By Julie Beidler
Follow @juliebeidler