Predators GM Barry Trotz has some interesting words for Yaroslav Askarov

The Nashville Predators recently awarded their number one goalie Juuse Saros with an eight-year contract, further proving that he will be the long-term guy for the organization. On top of that, they also signed Scott Wedgewood this summer as a free agent to be the team's backup.

These two moves were huge daggers in Yaroslav Askarov's heart, as he knew there was simply no place for him to be able to grow within the team.

Kevin Weekes, a respected NHL insider, revealed earlier today that Yaroslav Askarov, who is a top goalie prospect in the NHL, requested a trade from the team and also said under no circumstances would he be reporting to training camp.

Immediately following this announcement, Predators GM Barry Trotz issued his own statement. Normally, teams remain quiet when these things happen as they don't want to attract too much attention or risk making things worse, however it appears the Predators wanted to set the tone and let Yaroslav Askarov know how they truly felt about this. The Athletic's John Glennon reported the details.

Since he was drafted by the Nashville Predators in the first round, 11th overall, at the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, Yaroslav Askarov has only suited up in three NHL games for the team. He has only one win, and boasts a 2.57 GAA and .914 save %. It's no wonder with stats like these he wants out, as he had so much potential, and now that he's in his 20s, he no longer wants to waste any more time.

We could be dealing with this situation for quite some time, as it appears there is no immediate resolution. It almost appears that Barry Trotz and Yaroslav Askarov are prepared to play a game of chess here. The thing is, the Preds don't want this type of distraction leading up to the season, so for everyone's sake, it's important for Barry Trotz to act quick if he can.

NHL general managers know that Yaroslav Askarov wants out, so that normally leads that team to become desperate to move him, so it's very possible that Barry Trotz won't get the greatest return here, however if they can at least secure a first-round pick, that would make up for when he was drafted in that round.

Source:
John Glennon on X

Source: Elite Prospects
Yaroslav Askarov Stats