Yaroslav Askarov Could Have Immediate Path to Role With Sharks

One of the biggest moves of the offseason saw top goaltending prospect Yaroslav Askarov ask for, and receive a trade, as the Nashville Predators sent him to the San Jose Sharks.

As part of his trade request, the 22-year-old had insisted that he wouldn't return to the AHL this season, feeling he's proven all he needs to there. Now a development on the Sharks' roster leaves the door wide open for Askarov to indeed win a spot with the team at camp this month behind starter Mackenzie Blackwood.

Backup goalie Vitek Vanecek, who was dealt to the Sharks at the trade deadline but hasn't played for them yet, is recovering from hip surgery and according to a report, it doesn't look like he'll be ready in time for camp.

"It is my impression from people I've spoke with that Vanecek's recovery from hip surgery hasn't gone as quickly as they'd like, and that could open up a spot right away for Askarov," Woodley now on @Sports1440
— Jason Gregor (@JasonGregor) September 9, 2024

"It is my impression from people I've spoke with that Vanecek's recovery from hip surgery hasn't gone as quickly as they'd like, and that could open up a spot right away for Askarov," said Kevin Woodley of nhl.com, per Jason Gregor.

As recently as the end of August, things looked on track for Vanecek to be ready for camp, but he clearly has had some sort of setback in his recovery.

The Blackwood-Vanecek tandem was supposed to be a buffer zone for Askarov in his entry to the NHL, as the Sharks would probably not want to throw the rookie to the... uh... sharks so quickly. But this development might very well accelerate Askarov's ascension.

Vanecek started 29 games for the Predators last season, posting a 17-9-3 record with a 3.18 goals against average and an .890 save percentage.

Askarov has recorded a .911 Sv% with 2.55 GAA in his last two years with the Milwaukee Admirals of the AHL, and was named to the minor pro league's Top Prospects Team after last season.

NHL.com

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