The Carolina Hurricanes are usually good for a surprise move or two in the offseason these days. Landing the best defenseman, and arguably the biggest fish, on this year’s UFA market certainly qualifies.
Per a first report from Elliotte Friedman, the Hurricanes are signing UFA defenseman Dmitry Orlov to a two-year deal with a whopping $7.75-million AAV.
Orlov, drafted by the Washington Capitals in 2009, spent the first 10 years of his career with the Washington Capitals before splitting last year between Washington and Boston, going to the Bruins at the trade deadline.
The 32-year old posted seven goals and a career-high 36 points last season, and should be a great fit as a two-way force on the Hurricanes’ blue line.