Dmitry Orlov: "NHL is not a dream, it's a goal"

You and Maxim Kitsyn are leaders of your team, Metallurg Novokuznetsk. Is it hard for youngsters?

Orlov: "It's our fourth year in the club already. It was a gradual process. At the start we didn't see much ice time. Then every year they gave us more chances to develop. We have confidence now."

Do you pay attention to your personal stats? You score a lot, do you often try to join the rush?

Orlov: "I wouldn't say that I score a lot. I need to finish more. And yes, I love going forward. But so far I'm not satisfied about my play."

How do you plan to spend the November KHL pause?

Orlov: "We'll train and get ready for the upcoming games. We need to improve."

As usual during the November pause there is the Subway Super Series. Are you disappointed as you weren't invited to go to Canada?

Orlov: "No, I'm not. The head coach Valery Bragin called me, asked how are things and why I missed two games. I explained him that I had a minor injury. He said to rest and to get ready for the December WJC camp. Now they wouldn't call me to try some other guys out."

Do you think that we'll see you at the WJC?

Orlov: "In any case I'll have to work."

Do you follow the NHL? Maybe you follow the Washington Capitals?

Orlov: "Of course. If I get a chance I watch or read something, try not to miss this opportunity. I really want to go there to play in the future. Hopefully everything will work out."

Do you talk with the other guys drafted by the Caps?

Orlov: "Yes, we talk from time to time. When I was in Washington I've spent all the time with Evgeny Kuznetsov and Stanislav Galiev."

What impressions do you have about the NHL?

Orlov: "I haven't play in the NHL yet! But it's a strong league."

Is it your childhood dream?

Orlov: "Yes, my dream, but now it's a goal."

Were you happy that the Caps themselves drafted you?

Orlov: "Yes, I was. At first I was a little bit upset as I wasn't drafted during the first round, but I was really happy when Washington said my name."

How did you like skating at the Caps' rookie camp?

Orlov: "It was a bit hard because I understood everything, but I can't talk myself. No communication. But the guys helped me. It would have been tough if there wasn't Russian players."

Are you studying English now?

Orlov: "Yes, I've just started (laughs). And there are foreigners skating with the team. With them it's easier, I try to understand them and remember something."