The San Jose Sharks have bolstered their defensive lineup by signing veteran defenseman Dmitry Orlov to a two-year contract worth $13 million, carrying an average annual value of $6.5 million. The announcement was made by Sharks General Manager Mike Grier on Thursday.

Orlov, 33, brings a wealth of experience and a Stanley Cup pedigree to the Sharks. Grier praised Orlov as a "strong, two-way defenseman who brings physicality and versatility on the ice". He also highlighted Orlov's extensive NHL experience in both the regular season and playoffs, emphasizing the value of his Stanley Cup championship. Orlov won the Stanley Cup with the Washington Capitals in 2018.

Last season, Orlov played 76 games for the Carolina Hurricanes, recording 28 points (6 goals, 22 assists) and a plus-16 rating. He ranked third among Carolina defensemen in points, tied for second in plus-minus, and led the team in hits with 101. In the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Orlov contributed four assists in 15 games as the Hurricanes reached the Conference Final.

Throughout his NHL career, Orlov has played 867 games with the Washington Capitals, Boston Bruins, and Carolina Hurricanes, accumulating 327 points (76 goals, 251 assists) and a plus-134 rating. He has consistently averaged over 20 minutes of ice time per game in six of his previous eight seasons and has participated in 10 consecutive playoff seasons. In 107 playoff games, Orlov has tallied 41 points (4 goals, 37 assists).

The addition of Orlov marks another significant move for the Sharks this offseason. They also signed defenseman John Klingberg to a one-year, $4 million contract. In addition to their free agency acquisitions, the Sharks traded for goalie Alex Nedeljkovic from the Pittsburgh Penguins and drafted forward Michael Misa with the No. 2 pick in the NHL Draft. The Sharks also claimed Nick Leddy off waivers from the St. Louis Blues.

Orlov's arrival should provide a boost to San Jose's defense, adding a physical presence and valuable experience.