Dmitri Orlov has touched down in the land of chocolate.

According to Dmitri Chesnekov, the Washington Capitals prospect has popped up in Hershey, the home of their AHL affiliate. Chesnekov reported via Twitter that the Russian prospect is in North America and is reporting to the Hershey Bears.

Leaving his Kontinental Hockey League club Metallurg Novokuznetsk before the end of the season wasn’t a difficult choice for the 55th overall pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.

“I don’t want to end the season so early in February.” – Dmitri told Sport Express earlier this year. “I think I’ll extend it, but not here. I can’t continue playing in Russia. My team isn’t in play-off race, but doesn’t want to trade me, despite a number of offers. Most likely I’ll go to North America and play for the Hershey Bears.”

‘Most likely’ has become a reality.

The Novokuznetsk native joins a Bears team in the heat of a playoff push. The club is currently second in the East Division and third in the Eastern Conference with a 35-17-1-3 record.

Orlov was a catalyst in helping Russia to a gold medal at the 2011 World Junior Championship in Buffalo. The blueliner was named to the tournament’s all-star team after recording eight assists and nine points in seven games. He also represented Russia at the 2010 World Junior Championship.

In 45 games this season with Metallurg, Orlov had 10 assists and 12 points.

Aaron Vickers is the managing editor of Future Considerations and can be found on Twitter. For all the latest Future Considerations news and posts, follow FC’s Official Twitter Feed, on YouTube and on Facebook!