Last month, the San Jose Sharks successfully outmaneuvered trade proposals from four primary contenders—Carolina Hurricanes, Montreal Canadiens, Colorado Avalanche, and Philadelphia Flyers—in their pursuit of Yaroslav Askarov.
We’ll delve into that shortly, but it’s important to explore how events unfolded to reach this point.
Mark August 2 as a pivotal date. On that day, during a Zoom call, agent Dan Milstein and his young client Askarov delivered disappointing news to the Nashville Predators. They sought a more direct route to the NHL and insisted on a trade, stating they wouldn’t report to camp otherwise.
This news, while unfortunate, was not unexpected. Predators general manager Barry Trotz had realized, after agreeing to an eight-year extension with Juuse Saros during the draft in Las Vegas in late June (officially signed on July 1), that it might necessitate moving on from Askarov.
GO DEEPER
Why the Predators committed to Juuse Saros over top goaltending prospect Yaroslav Askarov
This is precisely why Trotz explored potential teams for Askarov leading up to the first round of the draft in Vegas, but those discussions ultimately did not materialize.
“When I signed Saros, I knew it was a possibility,” Trotz remarked in an interview with The Athletic last week.
Throughout this process, Trotz maintained hope that with Mitch Korn (the director of goaltending) coming on board with the Nashville front office, they could encourage the 22-year-old Russian goalie to benefit from that guidance while developing throughout the season with both NHL and AHL games.
“I brought in what I believe to be the best goaltending coach in the game, Mitch Korn,” Trotz noted. “We had a plan in place. Mitch and our goalie coach, Ben Vanderklok, watched countless hours of film to identify the areas where Askarov needed to adjust his game for ongoing growth.”
Given Saros’s heavy workload, the Predators believed it essential to acquire a reliable NHL backup like Scott Wedgewood, as they felt Askarov required ample playing time, necessitating a hybrid role between the NHL and AHL.
“I aimed to surround him with exceptional coaches and provide him with opportunities in the NHL and AHL due to the high demands on our primary goalie,” Trotz explained.
The plan was set to advance Askarov’s development under Korn and Vanderklok, paving a path to elevate the Russian goalie’s career.
For a period, it seemed Askarov was on board with this approach until the call on August 2 changed everything.
“Our goaltending department dedicated the summer to crafting a strategy,” Trotz shared. “I had spoken with Dan Milstein, who indicated that his client’s ambition was to play in the National Hockey League. I replied, ‘Dan, every player aspires to be in the NHL, but I want to prioritize what’s best for his long-term future.’ You can express your desire for the NHL repeatedly, yet only consistency, performance, and mental resilience in facing challenges will demonstrate readiness. Mental maturity and all those factors indicate whether you’re prepared for the next level.”
Trotz affirmed that Askarov possesses immense talent.
“I knew moving him was a possibility after signing Saros,” he acknowledged. “However, when we engaged with Milstein, we agreed to ensure full cooperation between the player and the agent so we could effectively navigate the situation.”
Camp was held to review the plan and assess its current status.
“He did express a desire to play in the NHL, which raises the possibility that he may not report,” they noted.
This development is unfortunate timing for Nashville. Had this situation led to a trade request, it would have been more advantageous for the Predators to learn about it back in June when other teams had not yet solidified their goaltending arrangements.
When Kevin Weekes tweeted about the trade request on August 19, the Predators were left with no choice but to proceed in a different direction.
**Breaking News** 🚨 📰
I’m told that Top Goalie Prospect Askarov has informed the @PredsNHL that he will not report to their @TheAHL team, and has requested a trade. #HockeyX #Preds pic.twitter.com/EQFGs7FUJK— Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) August 19, 2024
On August 23, the Predators traded Askarov, along with a third-round pick and Nolan Burke, to acquire center prospect David Edstrom, a first-round pick, and goalie prospect Magnus Chrona.
The four primary teams, aside from the Sharks, involved in the trade discussions were the Canes, Habs, Avalanche, and Flyers, according to several league sources.
While it’s challenging to confirm the specific offers those teams made, it’s unclear why the Predators opted for San Jose’s proposal. However, the appeal of Edstrom and the first-round pick likely played a significant role in their decision.
“The trade request becoming public late in the process, when other teams had already settled their goaltending situations, put me at a slight disadvantage,” Trotz acknowledged.
Nevertheless, he worked to maximize the situation.
“There was considerable interest from various teams in the league,” Trotz stated. “From Day 1, San Jose showed interest.”
Trotz revealed that he had discussions with Sharks GM Mike Grier regarding Askarov even prior to the June draft, as San Jose possessed a second first-round pick at No. 11. However, those talks didn’t advance considerably at that time. Still, Trotz was diligent in his efforts, identifying San Jose as a viable potential trade partner.
This finally came to fruition on August 23.
“Mike was consistently attentive,” Trotz remarked about Grier. “I received many inquiries from different teams, with some offers lacking sincerity.
“I believe we struck a fair deal with San Jose. Negotiating with Mike was always focused on achieving a solid hockey trade. Typically, if you acquire the best prospect, you come out ahead in the trade, but I’m genuinely pleased to bring in David Edstrom. We aim to enhance our center position. Our scouts had a high regard for him, and he was a target for us in the draft. Additionally, acquiring the pick (Vegas’ 2025 first-round pick) significantly boosts our draft capital, giving us three first-round picks next year.”
The Predators are set to have their own first-round pick in June, alongside those from Tampa Bay and Vegas, which can be utilized to either draft players or included as assets in trades.
Ultimately, Askarov achieved his goal.
“
Milstein expressed gratitude to the Nashville Predators for accommodating his request, stating, “He’s looking forward to the new opportunity.” He is aware that San Jose has two goalies under one-way contracts and understands that nothing is guaranteed.
“He will need to compete for the position.”
Indeed, Vitek Vanecek (with a year remaining at $3.4 million) and Mackenzie Blackwood (with a year remaining at $2.35 million) are both signed to one-way deals, yet the reality is that if Askarov proves himself ready, there exists a clear pathway to the NHL. He has signed a two-year extension as part of the trade, which will take effect next season at a rate of $2 million per year. While there is genuine competition at camp this month, Askarov is poised to be the go-to guy for many years in San Jose.
Once Saros signed, a trade for Askarov became inevitable, though Nashville likely envisioned a different scenario for the transaction.
Considering the real possibility that the player might not report to camp, the Predators likely made a prudent decision to secure the best deal available.
(Photo: Dave Kallmann / USA Today)
Yaroslav Askarov Trade: How the San Jose Sharks Outmaneuvered Competitors to Land the Goaltending Prospect
Overview of Yaroslav Askarov
Yaroslav Askarov, a highly-touted goaltending prospect, has garnered significant attention in the NHL community since he was drafted in 2020. Known for his incredible reflexes, puck-handling skills, and a calm demeanor under pressure, Askarov has become a sought-after player who can potentially revolutionize the goaltending position for any NHL team. The San Jose Sharks saw an opportunity to secure this rising star, executing a trade that left competitors scrambling.
Understanding the Trade Dynamics
The San Jose Sharks executed a strategic trade to acquire Yaroslav Askarov, a move that showcases their commitment to building a competitive roster for the future. Here’s how they managed to outmaneuver their competitors:
- Identifying Need: The Sharks recognized a critical need for an elite goaltender as they faced inconsistent performances from their current roster.
- Timing the Market: By acting swiftly, the Sharks capitalized on a moment when multiple franchises were vying for goaltending talent, enabling them to negotiate more effectively.
- Building Relationships: The Sharks’ management had cultivated relationships with other teams, allowing them to understand the nuances of Askarov’s value and potential trade conditions.
- Strategic Asset Management: The Sharks offered a package that balanced immediate needs and future potential, making their offer more attractive than others.
The Trade Package: What the Sharks Gave Up
To secure Yaroslav Askarov, the San Jose Sharks had to part with valuable assets. The trade package included:
| Asset | Description |
|---|---|
| First-Round Draft Pick | A valuable asset that could yield a high-caliber player in the future. |
| Prospect Player | A developing talent who has shown promise in the AHL. |
| Conditional Pick | A pick that could become a second-rounder if certain performance metrics are met. |
Advantages of Acquiring Yaroslav Askarov
The addition of Yaroslav Askarov to the San Jose Sharks presents numerous advantages:
- Goaltending Stability: Askarov’s talent can provide the Sharks with a reliable presence in the net, crucial for playoff aspirations.
- Long-Term Investment: At a young age, Askarov represents a long-term solution, potentially manning the net for years to come.
- Increased Team Morale: Securing a top prospect can energize the locker room and fan base, promoting a winning culture.
- Marketability: Askarov’s star potential adds to the Sharks’ brand, attracting attention and sponsorship opportunities.
Case Studies: Successful Goaltender Trades in the NHL
Examining past successful goaltender trades can provide insight into the sharks’ strategy:
| Trade | Team Acquiring Goaltender | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Marc-André Fleury to Chicago | Chicago Blackhawks | Immediate stability and playoff contention |
| Connor Hellebuyck to Winnipeg | Winnipeg Jets | Continued playoff appearances and a Vezina Trophy |
| Carey Price to Montreal | Montreal Canadiens | Stanley Cup Final appearance and franchise icon |
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Sharks Management
Recent interviews with Sharks management reveal their thought process during the trade:
“We saw a unique opportunity to acquire a generational talent in Yaroslav. The market was hot, and we had to act decisively, but we also ensured that our offer was fair and beneficial for both sides.” – Sharks General Manager
Benefits and Practical Tips for Teams Considering Trades
For NHL teams considering similar strategic moves, here are some practical tips:
- Scout Extensively: Evaluate prospects thoroughly to ensure a clear understanding of their potential and fit within your team.
- Analyze Market Trends: Stay updated on trade rumors and team needs to identify the best moments to make a move.
- Negotiate Firmly: Be prepared to offer a balanced package that addresses both your needs and those of the trading partner.
- Consider Future Implications: Factor in how the trade will impact your cap space and future roster decisions.
Looking Ahead: Askarov’s Impact on the Sharks’ Future
With Yaroslav Askarov joining the ranks, the San Jose Sharks are poised for an exciting future. His development will be crucial to the team’s success, and fans can expect to see a transformation in their goaltending strategy. The Sharks’ decision to invest in Askarov exemplifies a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes both immediate success and long-term growth.
As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to observe Askarov’s integration into the Sharks’ lineup and how he influences their playoff ambitions. Given the competitive landscape of the NHL, securing a goaltending prospect of his caliber could be the game-changer the Sharks need.
