NHL Rumors: Proposed Trade Sends Yaroslav Askarov To Blue Jackets

Tuesday, July 09, 2024 ,

Jason Newland of The Hockey News has proposed an intriguing trade scenario that would send young Russian goaltender Yaroslav Askarov from the Nashville Predators to the Columbus Blue Jackets. 

With the Predators committing to Juuse Saros through an eight-year extension and signing veteran Scott Wedgewood, Askarov's future in Nashville seems uncertain. 

Newland suggests that Predators GM Barry Trotz might consider a trade offer from the Blue Jackets involving winger Kent Johnson and goalie Daniil Tarasov.

The proposal stems from the belief that Askarov could be available for the right price, especially since the Predators couldn't work out a trade for a top-five pick during the draft. 

The Predators' asking price was reportedly an "established NHL player, or a prospect with a high ceiling." In this context, Johnson and Tarasov could meet those criteria, providing the Blue Jackets with a potential long-term solution in net while giving the Predators valuable assets in return. 

Johnson, despite his struggles with injuries and inconsistent play in his sophomore season, remains a highly regarded prospect, while Tarasov, who showed promise towards the end of last season, could develop further under Saros in Nashville.

Although there’s no indication from Askarov’s camp that he desires a trade, and he might start the season with Nashville's AHL affiliate in Milwaukee, exploring this possibility could benefit both teams. 

The Blue Jackets, facing uncertainties in their goaltending lineup, could solidify their future by acquiring a top-tier prospect like Askarov, who has performed well in the AHL and is widely considered the Predators' top prospect.

Photo Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports



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