NHL Rumors: Predators Tried To Trade Top Prospect For "Dynamic Center"

In the lead-up to the 2023 NHL Draft, the Nashville Predators, under the new leadership of General Manager Barry Trotz, generated significant buzz by openly exploring the trade potential of their prized goaltending prospect, Yaroslav Askarov.

Trotz's primary aim was to secure a dynamic young center, recognizing the need to make bold moves to strengthen the team's lineup.

Despite possessing Juuse Saros, an established starting goaltender under an affordable contract for two more seasons, Trotz didn't rule out the possibility of retaining both talented netminders, emphasizing that there was no immediate urgency to part ways with either.

#Preds goalie Yaroslav Askarov has a big personality. But don’t expect him to apologize for being himself pic.twitter.com/icq4jvVGpD

— Nashville Hockey Now (@NSHhockeynow) September 15, 2023

The decision regarding Askarov's future in Nashville was set to be influenced by discussions with Saros and his agent, as well as Saros's contract negotiations in the upcoming seasons.

Askarov, who was the 11th overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, showcased great potential during his debut season with the AHL's Milwaukee Admirals.

This past season, in his AHL debut, the 21-year-old recorded a solid .911 save percentage, 2.69 GAA, while recording three shutouts over 48 games played.

This strategic maneuver underscored Trotz's commitment to exploring every avenue to bolster the Predators' roster and marked a noteworthy transition as he took over the reins from the long-time Predators GM, David Poile. Photo Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports