Three front-runners in the race to acquire sought-after goalie Yaroslav Askarov
Three leading teams are reportedly in contention to acquire Yaroslav Askarov, the highly regarded goalie prospect currently associated with the Nashville Predators.
Nashville's 2020 11th-overall pick (and highest drafted Russian goaltender in history) suits up for his NHL debut TONIGHT in Montreal.
The Preds have recently inked a substantial long-term contract with their top goalie, Juuse Saros, and brought on veteran Scott Wedgewood as backup. This move effectively closes any opportunity for Yaroslav Askarov to develop his NHL career within the Predators organization.
The latest indications suggest that the Carolina Hurricanes, San Jose Sharks, and Columbus Blue Jackets are the front-runners in the race to acquire the highly talented Askarov.
The Hurricanes would be Askarov's optimal choice if he's focused on immediate success, although he might see less playing time compared to joining the other two teams currently in rebuilding phases. Both the Sharks and Blue Jackets faced significant challenges last season, particularly in goal prevention, making a new goaltender crucial, and Askarov could potentially fill that role effectively.
Last year, Yaroslav Askarov bench pressed the net after a shootout victory 💪
GM Barry Trotz is likely on the phone right now, trying to get a deal done, so hopefully Askarov gets his trade wish granted soon.
Source: House of Hockey
Yaroslav Askarov likely traded to three potential teams
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 18 | 117 ANSWERS Three front-runners in the race to acquire sought-after goalie Yaroslav Askarov Where will Yaroslav Askarov play next season? | ||
| San Jose Sharks | 24 | 20.5 % |
| Carolina Hurricanes | 32 | 27.4 % |
| Blue Jackets | 21 | 17.9 % |
| Predators AHL Team | 40 | 34.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
