In the ongoing goaltending turmoil for the Edmonton Oilers, the demotion of Jack Campbell to the AHL has only deepened the crease crisis, solidifying the team’s reputation for having arguably the worst goaltending situation in the NHL. As the Oilers frantically search for a remedy, TSN’s Ryan Rishaug, on the “Got Yer Back” podcast, threw a daring suggestion into the mix – why not inquire about prying away Nashville Predators’ top prospect Yaroslav Askarov?
“No, he doesn’t have the NHL experience yet, but maybe you dig into your assets to fix your biggest problem?”
Of course, this bold move comes at a hefty cost, potentially involving the Oilers parting ways with a future first rounder and possibly more than one of Edmonton’s top prospects. Yet, with the team desperate to shore up its goaltending and not waste any more of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl’s prime years, it might be a gamble worth taking.
While sources suggest Nashville GM Barry Trotz is reluctant to part with both Askarov and Juuse Saros, there are whispers that for the right offer of draft assets and high-end prospects, Askarov could be on the table. The 21-year-old netminder has been turning heads in the AHL with a league-leading 1.60 GAA and a .935 save percentage, making him an enticing but potentially expensive prospect.
In the complex dance of goaltending negotiations, Saros, the more established star player, comes with a steep asking price. During inquiries by the Los Angeles Kings ahead of the trade deadline last season, the Predators reportedly sought two first-round picks and 2-3 premium prospects for Saros.
With all of that said, Trotz won’t budge on Askarov until Saros’ future is secure. If Saros explores free agency in 2025, Predators need Askarov ready. Trading him now risks goalie uncertainty.
As the Oilers weigh the costs and benefits of potentially acquiring Askarov or exploring other options, the goaltending drama continues to unfold, leaving fans on the edge of their seats, wondering if this bold pursuit could be the key to salvaging a season that’s quickly slipping away.
