Three teams appear to be the front runners to land highly touted goalie prospect Yaroslav Askarov of the Nashville Predators, who has been in many rumors.
The Preds have recently signed their number one goalie Juuse Saros to a massive long-term contract, as well as signing veteran Scott Wedgewood to be their backup. That essentially leaves absolutely no room for Askarov to grow his game in the NHL with the Predators organization.
It now appears the three teams who have the best shot at landing the very talented Askarov are the Carolina Hurricanes, the San Jose Sharks and Columbus Blue Jackets.
Yaroslav Askarov is participating in practice. Here's a nice drill against the red hot Zach L'Heureux.
The Canes would be the ideal choice for Askarov if he is in win now mode, however, he would likely not get as much playing time than if he were to land with the other two rebuilding teams. The Sharks and Blue Jackets struggled mightily last season and allowed a ton of goals, therefore a fresh change in net is needed, and Askarov could be the answer.
The @mkeadmirals are hosting a «Askarov Bench Press Figurine Giveaway» in March.
Last year, Yaroslav Askarov bench pressed the net after a shootout victory 💪