In an exciting trade announcement, San Jose Sharks General Manager Mike Grier revealed that the team has acquired talented goaltender Yaroslav Askarov from the Nashville Predators. The Sharks also received a 2025 third-round draft selection (Colorado's choice) and forward Nolan Burke in the deal. In return, the Predators received goaltender Magnus Chrona, forward David Edstrom, and a 2025 first-round draft pick (Vegas's selection).

Mike Grier expressed his confidence in Askarov, describing him as a highly promising young player with all the tools to become a regular NHL goaltender. The 22-year-old Russian showcased his exceptional skill set in his two appearances for the Predators last season, posting a 1-0-0 record with an impressive 1.47 goals-against average (GAA) and a .943 save percentage (SV%). In a total of three NHL games, Askarov maintained a solid 2.58 GAA and a .914 SV% during his time with Nashville.

During the 2023-24 season, Askarov primarily played for the Milwaukee Admirals, Nashville's American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate. He excelled in the AHL, appearing in 44 games and amassing a remarkable 30-13-1 record, six shutouts, and a 2.39 GAA with a .911 SV%. These outstanding performances placed him among the top five goaltenders in GAA and tied for second in wins and shutouts. Askarov's standout achievement was his 14-game winning streak, tying the franchise record and earning him recognition as the AHL Player of the Week.

Askarov's valuable contributions helped Milwaukee reach the Western Conference Final for the second consecutive season. In five postseason games, he recorded a 2-3 record with a 3.25 GAA. Additionally, the talented goaltender showcased his abilities in the 2022-23 season as a rookie, ranking among the top AHL goaltenders in wins, goals-against average, save percentage, and shutouts.

Prior to his North American career, Askarov made a name for himself with SKA St. Petersburg in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). He made history as the second-youngest goaltender to start a KHL game when he debuted at the age of 17. With 16 career KHL appearances, Askarov displayed remarkable skills, posting an 8-5-2 record, a stellar 1.48 GAA, and a .937 SV%.

Internationally, Askarov represented Russia in the 2020 and 2021 World Junior Championships, contributing to a silver medal finish in the 2020 tournament. His performance in the tournament included a 2.71 GAA and an .877 SV% in five games.

Alongside Askarov, the Sharks also acquired forward Nolan Burke in the trade. Although Burke primarily played for the Atlanta Gladiators in the ECHL, he did have a stint with the Admirals last season, appearing in a single game. Before his professional career, Burke played for the Sarnia Sting in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), accumulating an impressive 154 points with 90 goals and 64 assists in 177 career games.

This trade between the Sharks and the Predators marks an exciting addition to San Jose's goaltending arsenal as they look to strengthen their team for the upcoming NHL season. With Yaroslav Askarov's exceptional skills and potential, he is expected to make a significant impact on the team's performance.