Though the Washington Capitals have struggled through the first 21 games of the 2011-12 NHL season, they have to be pleasantly surprised with the play of a couple of rookies who have taken on big roles in the early going.
Cody Eakin and Dmitri Orlov both earned NHL call-ups after posting impressive numbers at the AHL level, performing admirably during their stints in a Capitals uniform.
While Eakin was considered a good bet to be in Washington at some point this season, it was unclear as to whether Orlov would get his first big-league experience, primarily because the Caps' blue line is stacked with talent and experience, at least on paper.
However, after Mike Green went down with a troublesome groin injury November 13, Orlov's number was called by GM George McPhee, and the 20-year old Russian has taken advantage of his opportunity in a big way so far.
In just three games, Orlov has registered two assists, while also demonstrating the offensive skill and foot speed that has made him the latest hot prospect in what has become a long line of talented young defenseman coming out of Hershey.
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Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Ryan Davenport
Dmitri Orlov: The Washington Capitals’ Newest Stud on the Blueline
November 26th, 2011 by Ryan Davenport Leave a reply »
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