Sharks Land Askarov in Major Goaltending Trade
In a significant move that could reshape their future, the San Jose Sharks have acquired Yaroslav Askarov, a highly touted goaltending prospect, from the Nashville Predators. This trade, announced on August 23, 2024, is poised to bolster the Sharks' netminding for the long term and addresses a critical need for the franchise.
General Manager Mike Grier spearheaded the deal, which sees the Sharks sending a 2025 first-round pick (Vegas’ selection), forward David Edstrom, and goaltender Magnus Chrona to the Predators. In return, San Jose gains Askarov, a 2025 third-round pick previously held by Colorado, and forward Nolan Burke. Notably, if the Vegas pick falls within the top 10, the Sharks have the option to swap it with their own first-round pick.
To secure Askarov’s services beyond this season, the Sharks have also signed him to a two-year contract extension worth $4 million, starting in the 2025-26 season. This move reflects the Sharks’ confidence in Askarov’s potential to become a cornerstone of their goaltending future.
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“Yaroslav is a goaltender who possesses the skills and attributes needed to be a top NHL netminder,” said Grier. “His positioning, vision, and athleticism have been evident in his recent performances, and we are thrilled to welcome him to our organization.”
Askarov, just 22 years old, has shown impressive potential in both the NHL and AHL. Last season, he played in two NHL games for Nashville, boasting a 1.47 goals-against average and a .943 save percentage. His performance in the AHL was even more compelling: in 44 games with the Milwaukee Admirals, he posted a 30-13-1 record with a 2.39 GAA and six shutouts, ranking among the league’s top goaltenders. His impressive run included a 14-game winning streak, showcasing his ability to deliver consistent, high-level performances.
Before making his mark in North America, Askarov played for SKA St. Petersburg in the KHL, where he made history as the second-youngest goaltender to start a KHL game. His international experience includes representing Russia at the World Junior Championships, where he contributed to a silver medal in 2020.
The Sharks' acquisition of Askarov is part of a broader strategy to build a strong foundation for the future. With a roster already bolstered by young talents like 2024 top pick Macklin Celebrini and 2023 first-rounder Will Smith, adding a high-potential goaltender like Askarov addresses a key gap. San Jose has struggled in net in recent years, ranking last in the NHL with a 3.32 goals-against average over the past five seasons, and this trade is a clear effort to turn that trend around.
In addition to Askarov, the Sharks have also brought in forward Nolan Burke, who has spent time in the ECHL and the AHL, and will add depth to their roster. Meanwhile, the Predators are set to benefit from additional draft picks and prospects, enhancing their own future prospects.
This trade marks a pivotal moment for the Sharks as they aim to revitalize their squad and build towards a more competitive future. Askarov’s arrival represents a new chapter for San Jose’s goaltending, and the organization’s commitment to his development underscores their ambition to return to prominence in the NHL.
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