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After being called up five different times to the Washington Capitals this season, Russian defenseman Dmitry Orlov will finally play in an NHL game tonight during his sixth stint with the club. Earlier in the week, Orlov opened up about the constant yo-yoing between Washington and AHL Hershey, telling RMNB’s Igor Kleyner — in his native Russian — that the situation has been “difficult.” Orlov’s agent, Mark Gandler, was a bit more blunt, requesting that his client be traded and claiming that Orlov would never re-sign with the team. Fun stuff!

Instead of seeing Dima in another jersey, however, fans will get another chance to look at the 2009 second round pick play in Capitals colors tonight against the New York Islanders. After weeks of poor play, Alexander Urbom will be scratched and watch from the press box.

Suffice to say, Orlov was excited about his opportunity. After the morning skate, Dima did his first ever English interview in front of cameras.

“I don’t want to think about [the drama] right now,” Orlov was captured as saying by Monumental Network. “I just want to play. I’m happy to play.”

Orlov, who two years ago in Hershey could not speak more than a few words of English to me, has spent a ton of time studying the language during his off hours. He’s used Rosetta Stone. He’s also enrolled in English classes around Hershey. His progress is staggering considering I still can’t say full thoughts in Spanish despite four years studying the language in school.

Regardless, just like with his English, Orlov wants to keep it simple out on the ice tonight to be successful.

“I think I play the easy game, with more defense,” Orlov declared.

“Of course, if I have chance maybe try to score or get to the pass,” he continued with a smile. “But I think first my defense and try to play hard every shift and help the team.”

Orlov will be paired with Tyson Strachan tonight.

And way to go on the English. He’s a natural.