Predators' Yaroslav Askarov submits shock trade request: Report

Nashville Predators goalie prospect Yaroslav Askarov has reportedly requested a trade from the team. Askarov was selected in the first round of the 2020 NHL draft, but Nashville recently signed starter Juuse Saros to an eight-year, $61.92 million extension.

With the Predators committing to Saros for eight years, Askarov's pathway to being a starter in the NHL is blocked and he has now requested a trade, according to ESPN insider Kevin Weekes.

Weekes said Askarov has told Nashville he will not report to the AHL and has formally requested a trade. The Russian is the top goalie prospect in the NHL. Last season in the AHL, he went 30-13-1 with a 2.39 GAA and a .911 SV%.

Askarov has proven all he can in the AHL and is looking for a chance to play in the NHL. At age 22, he is just entering the prime of his career and probably feels like he should get a chance at playing in the NHL.

Although Askarov has requested a trade, Nashville does not have to move him. The Russian, however, is entering the final year of his deal as he becomes an RFA on July 1, 2025.

Insider reveals asking price for Yaroslav Askarov

Yaroslav Askarov was rumored to be in trade discussions ahead of the 2024 NHL draft but Nashville didn't move him.

Now, with Askarov asking for a trade, it may force GM Barry Trotz's hand. According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, Nashville is looking for an NHL player and a prospect.

“They’re looking for either an established NHL player that makes sense to acquire for Askarov or another high-ceiling prospect that is not a goalie,” Friedman said, via Athlon Sports.

Askarov has been linked to the Montreal Canadiens as a potential trade destination, as Montreal has plenty of prospects to make the deal work, while also not having a legit No. 1 goalie.

If the Canadiens were to acquire Yaroslav Askarov, Montreal would solidify its goalie position. The Russian is just 22, so his age fits in nicely with the young core of Montreal.