It has now been reported that Askarov has asked to be traded and wouldn't report to the Milwaukee Admirals if he's sent down after training camp.
Predators' general manager, Barry Trotz, has issued the following statement Monday morning:
Askarov was once a top-10 goalie prospect, but he hasn't secured a starting role in Nashville.
Entering the last year of his entry-level contract, he makes $925K and can be moved to the minors without waivers.
The 22-year-old has spent two seasons in North America, performing well in the AHL and making just a few NHL appearances. His chances in Nashville dimmed after the team signed goalie Juuse Saros to a long-term deal and brought in veteran Scott Wedgewood.
Askarov's agent has been exploring options with the Predators, stating that Askarov is ready for the NHL- but with Nashville signing big names and moving out of rebuild mode, Askarov's future with the team seems uncertain and the goaltender is clearly frustrated.
To view highlights of Askarov, click HERE
Askarov's situation will attract teams needing goalie depth, like the Chicago Blackhawks who have a weak goaltender prospect pipline.
His future depends on finding a team needing his skills and having space for him.
POLL | ||
19 AOUT | 98 ANSWERS Nashville Predators goalie Yaroslav Askarov completes major move which could see him heading to Chicago Should the Blackhawks go all in on this goaltender? | ||
Yes | 71 | 72.4 % |
No | 27 | 27.6 % |
List of polls |