Sharks Recall Promising Goalie Yaroslav Askarov Amid Rebuilding Efforts

The San Jose Sharks announced the recall of goaltender Yaroslav Askarov from the San Jose Barracuda, their affiliate in the American Hockey League (AHL). This marks the first time Askarov, who is 22 years old, has been called up to the Sharks’ main roster.

Askarov has had an outstanding start to the season with the Barracuda, boasting a record of 6-3-0 through nine appearances. He has maintained a .939 save percentage (SV%) and a 1.92 goals-against average (GAA). His remarkable performance earned him the title of AHL Goaltender of the Month for October, after achieving a 5-0-0 record, a 1.20 GAA, a .959 SV%, and two shutouts. He currently ranks third in AHL save percentage and sixth in GAA.

Having made his National Hockey League (NHL) debut with the Nashville Predators on January 12, 2023, Askarov secured his first NHL victory on December 30, 2023, against the Washington Capitals, making 29 saves on 31 shots. With a career NHL record of 1-1-0 and a .914 SV%, Askarov has shown promise in the limited opportunities he has received thus far.

Last season, Askarov spent most of his time playing for the Milwaukee Admirals, the AHL affiliate of the Nashville Predators. There, he posted a 30-13-1 record over 44 games, with six shutouts, a 2.39 GAA, and a .911 SV%. His performances included a 14-game winning streak, tying a franchise record, and featuring five shutouts.

Before joining the AHL, Askarov played in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) for SKA St. Petersburg. Noteworthy is his achievement of becoming the second-youngest goaltender to start a KHL game at the age of 17. Over 16 KHL games, he accumulated a record of 8-5-2, with a 1.48 GAA and a .937 SV%.

The Sharks acquired Askarov from the Nashville Predators on August 23, 2024, in a significant trade that included forward Nolan Burke and a third-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, with David Edstrom, Magnus Chrona, and a first-round protected draft pick going the other way.

Coinciding with Askarov’s recall, forward Nico Sturm has been placed on Injured Reserve. This move occurs as the Sharks continue their efforts to rebuild their roster. Despite boasting a robust farm system and drafting top prospects, such as former Boston University center Macklin Celebrini, the team has struggled this season. The Sharks currently hold a 5-10-4 record, ranking among the lowest in the league with an average of 3.37 goals allowed per game.