In a stunning turn of events, the Nashville Predators find themselves facing a potential trade request from young goaltender Yaroslav Askarov. The 22-year-old netminder, selected 11th overall in the 2020 draft, has reportedly told the team that he is not willing to report to the AHL this season and has asked to be dealt elsewhere.
General manager Barry Trotz addressed the situation, stating, “We are aware of the report today and our expectation is for the player to report to training camp and compete for a job in September.” These remarks were captured by the Nashville Post, shedding light on the team’s perspective on the matter.
ESPN’s Kevin Weekes first broke the news, revealing that Askarov is seeking a change of scenery in search of more playing time. Despite his solid performance with the AHL’s Milwaukee Admirals last season, where he recorded a .911 save percentage and a 2.39 goals-against average, Askarov has struggled to secure a full-time role with the Predators. With the recent signing of Scott Wedgewood to a lucrative two-year, $3 million deal in free agency, Askarov faces stiff competition for the backup position behind star goaltender Juuse Saros.
Askarov’s limited opportunities at the NHL level, appearing in just two games for Nashville and boasting a .943 save percentage and 1.47 goals-against average, have made it clear that he is seeking a new home where he can showcase his talents more prominently. The young Russian goalie is signed through the upcoming season with a cap hit of $925,000, but looming restricted free agency next July adds a layer of uncertainty to his future with the team.
Meanwhile, the Predators have been making waves this offseason in their quest to bolster their roster for a deep playoff run. Acquisitions of free agents like Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, and Brady Skjei signal the team’s commitment to winning now. After returning to the playoffs this past season following an eight-year absence, Nashville is determined to build on their recent success and take the next step towards playoff glory.
The drama surrounding Yaroslav Askarov’s trade request adds an unexpected twist to the Predators’ offseason plans. Will the talented young goaltender find a new home where he can thrive, or will Nashville convince him to stay and compete for a spot on the roster? Only time will tell how this situation unfolds in the coming months.
