The Predators have officially placed the best goaltending prospect on the market
Elliotte Friedman of the 32 Thoughts podcast and Sportsnet insider has reported that the Nashville Predators are open to trading their highly-touted goaltending prospect Yaroslav Askarov.
Nashville's general manager, Barry Trotz, appears to be exploring trade options following the recent eight-year, $61.9 million contract extension given to current starting goaltender Juuse Saros. With Scott Wedgewood added to the mix, it's evident that the Predators are focused on winning now, making Askarov potentially expendable despite being previously viewed as the franchise's future in net.
Askarov, selected 11th overall by Nashville in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, is widely regarded as a future star. Standing at 6'4" and 179 lbs, the 22-year-old played two games for the Predators last season, posting a stellar 1.47 goals-against average and a .943 save percentage. He spent the majority of the season with the AHL's Milwaukee Admirals, where he recorded an impressive 30-13-1 record.
Askarov's availability on the trade market will draw significant interest from teams needing goaltending, as reliable starters have become increasingly scarce in the NHL. If Trotz decides to move him, the Predators could receive a substantial return, given Askarov's potential and the demand for high-caliber goaltenders. The situation remains fluid, and it will be intriguing to see how it unfolds.
Credit: Oilers Daily
Nashville Predators looking to trade star goaltender
| POLL | ||
AOUT 14 | 164 ANSWERS The Predators have officially placed the best goaltending prospect on the market Should the Canucks take a look at the possibility of acquiring Askarov? | ||
| Yes | 66 | 40.2 % |
| No | 98 | 59.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
