Sharks Acquire Top Goalie Prospect Askarov in Trade with Predators

The San Jose Sharks landed a potential franchise goalie on Friday, acquiring Yaroslav Askarov from the Nashville Predators in a trade. Askarov, the former first-round pick (2020), also signed a two-year, $4 million contract with the Sharks.

Sharks Bolster Goaltending Future:

• Sharks GM Mike Grier calls the acquisition a “big day” for the franchise, praising Askarov’s talent and potential.
• Askarov, 22, has a promising future with his size, athleticism, and puck-handling abilities.
• Grier believes Askarov could compete for the starting goalie role in San Jose.

Trade Package:

• The Sharks sent forward prospect David Edstrom (acquired from Vegas), goalie prospect Magnus Chrona, and a conditional first-round pick (originally Vegas’) to Nashville.
• San Jose also received minor-league forward Nolan Burke and a third-round pick in 2025.

Askarov’s Trade Request:

• Askarov reportedly requested a trade due to Nashville’s crowded goaltending situation.
• Predators GM Barry Trotz initially expected Askarov to compete for a job in training camp.
• Public knowledge of the trade request accelerated the Predators’ decision to move Askarov.

Goalie Situation in Both Teams:

• The Sharks currently have Mackenzie Blackwood, Georgi Romanov, and Vitek Vanecek as goalies. Grier acknowledges the possibility of starting the season with three goalies if Askarov impresses.
• The Predators retain Juuse Saros, Matt Murray, and Scott Wedgewood in net.

Future Outlook:

• Askarov’s arrival in San Jose creates a competition for the starting goalie role in training camp.
• The trade bolsters the Sharks’ goaltending future with a highly-touted prospect.
• The Predators acquire a promising forward prospect (Edstrom) and bolster their draft capital.