Predators are trading goaltender Yaroslav Askarov

Days after highly touted Nashville Predators goaltending prospect Yaroslav Askarov requested a trade, the franchise has granted his request. 

According to Elliotte Friedman, Askarov is being sent to the San Jose Sharks: 

Askarov will join a crowded goaltending room in San Jose that includes MacKenzie Blackwood and Vitek Vanecek, though they are both only under contract for the 2024-25 campaign.

Having played overseas in his native Russia, Askarov made the jump to North America in time for the 2022-23 NHL season, and suited up for the Predators' American Hockey League affiliate Milwaukee Admirals. He amassed a record of 26-16-5 with a 2.69 goals against average. 

However, he has no interest in continuing to play in the minors and was clearly displeased that the Predators gave starting goaltender Juuse Saros an eight-year extension while also signing Scott Wedgewood to be his backup. Askarov made it clear that he has no intention of reporting to the AHL this season, and requested to be moved. 

Initially, Predators GM Barry Trotz refused to budge and announced that Askarov was expected to report to Training Camp next month. 

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