NHL fans have been talking about Yaroslav Askarov's recent trade request. NHL insider Kevin Weekes shared the news on X and reported that the top goalie prospect informed the Nashville Predators that he will not report to their AHL team, the Milwaukee Admirals, if assigned there.
"**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" weeks tweeted.
Yaroslav Askarov, who was drafted 11th overall by Nashville in 2020, is unhappy with his current situation with the team. Fans are now speculating where Askarov could end up, and some are worried about what this means for Nashville.
"Oilers should ignore broberg and Holloway and trade for him instead of using 2 AHL goalies all year" a fan opined.
Here are some more reactions from fans on X:
"He wants the starter and he’s not gonna get it in Nashville so rightfully so he’s asking out" one fan said.
"Dudes not proven and already has attitude issues, instant turn off." a fan shared.
"Outside of Minnesota's Wallstedt, I think DET has TWO top 5 goalie prospects in Cossa and Augustine. Trade 1 of them for Askarov and we can Play him this October. Det is in the East too." one fan responded.
Askarov's future remains uncertain, and fans are eager to see what happens next.
Yaroslav Askarov asked for trade due to absence of starting role in Nashville
Yaroslav Askarov has been a sought-after trade candidate for a few seasons now and Nashville used him as trade bait in the 2023 and 2024 drafts. He is entering the final year of his entry-level contract and remains waiver-exempt.
Despite strong AHL performances, his path to starting in Nashville was blocked. The Predators signed Juuse Saros to an eight-year extension and added veteran Scott Wedgewood. Askarov's agent said they were exploring different options for his future, per Pro Hockey Rumors, as he believes Askarov is ready for the NHL.
The Montreal Canadiens were previously linked to Askarov, as Nashville was reportedly pushing for a trade, but no deal was made. Other teams in need of a backup goalie, like the Tampa Bay Lightning, might be interested.
Yaroslav Askarov's low cap hit makes him an appealing trade option, but his limited NHL experience could affect his role on a new team.