On Friday, Yaroslav Askarov was traded from the Nashville Predators to the San Jose Sharks.
The Predators received forward prospect David Edstrom, goalie prospect Magnus Chrona, and a conditional first-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft (which the Sharks previously acquired from the Vegas Golden Knights) in exchange for the goalie.
If that pick falls within the top 10, the Sharks can choose to transfer either their own 2025 first-round pick or the one from the Golden Knights.
Additionally, San Jose brought in minor league forward Nolan Burke and a third-round pick for the 2025 draft.
Askarov was chosen by Nashville with the 11th overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft. The 22-year-old has a record of 2-1-1, boasting a 2.58 goals-against average and a .914 save percentage over three games across two seasons with the Predators.
He was recognized as the top-rated European goalie in NHL Central Scouting’s final rankings for the 2020 draft, becoming the third Russian-born goalie in NHL history selected first at that position, following Ilya Samsonov (Washington Capitals, 22nd 2015 NHL Draft) and Andrei Vasilevskiy (Tampa Bay Lightning, 19th 2012 NHL Draft).
“Yaroslav is a goaltender who possesses the skills to become a regular NHL goalie,” stated Sharks general manager Mike Grier. “His talent for effective positioning, vision, and athleticism has been evident over the past few seasons, making him a valuable young addition to our goaltending group. We are pleased to welcome him to our organization.”
According to NHL Network’s Kevin Weekes, Askarov had asked to be traded. The Predators’ general manager, Barry Trotz, issued a statement on Monday expressing the expectation that Askarov would report to training camp in September and compete for a roster spot.
Askarov made headlines on November 27, 2019, when he debuted in the Kontinental Hockey League with SKA St. Petersburg at the age of 17, becoming the second-youngest goalie to start a game in KHL history (a record previously held by Ilya Sorokin in 2013).
The Predators currently have three other goalies on their roster, including their number one goalie, Juuse Saros, along with Matt Murray and Scott Wedgewood.
Askarov, who has a record of 56-29-6, with a 2.55 GAA, a .911 save percentage, and nine shutouts in 92 games over two seasons with the Milwaukee Admirals in the American Hockey League, may compete for the Sharks’ number one goalie position. The Sharks also have Mackenzie Blackwood, Georgi Romanov, and Vitek Vanecek on their roster.
Burke, a 21-year-old center, signed a three-year entry-level contract with Nashville on November 14, 2022. Last season, he recorded 15 points (five goals and ten assists) in 47 games with Atlanta in the ECHL and appeared in one game with Milwaukee in the AHL.
Edstrom, a forward who was drafted 32nd overall by the Golden Knights in the 2023 NHL Draft, is 19 years old and registered 19 points (seven goals and twelve assists) in 44 games with Frolunda in the Swedish Hockey League last season.
Chrona, a 23-year-old goalie selected by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the fifth round of the 2018 NHL Draft (152nd overall), had a challenging season with a record of 1-6-1, a 4.71 GAA, and an .859 save percentage in nine games with the Sharks. He also had a record of 6-17-6, with a 3.49 GAA and .894 save percentage in 31 games with San Jose in the AHL, and was 0-1-1 with a 2.94 GAA and .940 save percentage in two games with Wichita in the ECHL.
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Yaroslav Askarov Traded to San Jose Sharks: Details of the Blockbuster Deal
Overview of the Trade
In a surprising turn of events, the San Jose Sharks have acquired promising goaltender Yaroslav Askarov in a blockbuster trade. This move is expected to significantly impact both teams involved and the broader landscape of the NHL.
Details of the Trade
The transaction involved a complex arrangement that included multiple players, draft picks, and a significant financial component. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
| Team | Player/Asset | Details |
|---|---|---|
| San Jose Sharks | Yaroslav Askarov | Highly touted goaltender with immense potential |
| Previous Team (Nashville Predators) | Draft Picks | 2024 1st Round Pick, 2025 2nd Round Pick |
| San Jose Sharks | Future Considerations | Conditional pick based on performance |
Impact on the San Jose Sharks
Yaroslav Askarov’s arrival in San Jose marks a new era for the Sharks’ goaltending situation. Askarov, a first-round draft pick in 2020, has demonstrated remarkable skill and poise in the crease, making him one of the most exciting young goaltenders in the league.
Strengthening the Goaltending Core
- Future Star: Askarov is viewed as a potential franchise goaltender, capable of leading the Sharks for years to come.
- Development Opportunity: The Sharks can now provide the necessary development and mentorship to Askarov, enhancing his skills and confidence.
- Competitive Edge: With Askarov in the lineup, the Sharks aim to bolster their playoff aspirations and improve their overall team performance.
Analysis of Askarov’s Skill Set
Yaroslav Askarov’s skill set has garnered attention from scouts and analysts alike. Here’s a closer look at what makes him a valuable asset:
Technical Proficiency
- Agility: Askarov exhibits exceptional lateral movement, allowing him to cover the net effectively.
- Positioning: His ability to read the play and stay square to shooters enhances his shot-stopping ability.
- Puck Handling: Askarov is adept at playing the puck, which adds another dimension to his game.
Statistical Performance
Analyzing Askarov’s statistics can provide insights into his potential impact at the NHL level. Here’s a summary of his recent performance:
| Season | Games Played | Wins | Goals Against Average (GAA) | Save Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021-22 | 25 | 15 | 2.50 | .920 |
| 2022-23 | 30 | 18 | 2.30 | .925 |
What This Means for the Nashville Predators
While the Sharks celebrate their acquisition, the Nashville Predators are also navigating significant changes. The trade reflects their strategic shift, focusing on rebuilding and developing younger talent.
Rebuilding Strategy
- Acquiring Assets: By trading Askarov, the Predators have added valuable draft picks that can help them in future drafts.
- Focus on Youth: The team is looking to develop their younger players while shedding older contracts.
- Long-Term Vision: The Predators are positioning themselves for long-term success, and this trade aligns with their goals.
Fan Reactions and Community Response
The trade has sparked various reactions from fans, analysts, and former players, highlighting the emotional investment in both teams.
Positive Feedback
- Sharks Fans: Excitement over the potential of having Askarov as the future face of their goaltending unit.
- Predators Supporters: Understanding the need to rebuild and expressing hope for the future with new draft assets.
Concerns and Criticisms
- Short-Term Impact: Some fans worry about the immediate effects on the team’s performance in the current season.
- Future Uncertainty: Questions arise about whether the draft picks will yield successful players.
Conclusion
The trade of Yaroslav Askarov to the San Jose Sharks marks a pivotal moment in both franchises’ trajectories. As the Sharks look to the future with a potential star in the net, the Predators emphasize their commitment to a long-term strategy. As the NHL season progresses, the ramifications of this trade will undoubtedly unfold, providing plenty of excitement for hockey fans.
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