Predators sign top goalie prospect Yaroslav Askarov to ELC

The Nashville Predators announced on Monday that they've signed top goaltending prospect Yaroslav Askarov to a three-year, entry-level contract that begins next season (2022/23).

Askarov, 19, appeared in both the KHL and the VHL (second-highest Russian league) during the 2021-22 season. In six KHL games with SKA St. Petersburg, he had a record of 2-1-2 with a 1.81 GAA and a .913 save percentage. In nine games in the VHL, Askarov went 5-2-2 with a 2.57 GAA, an .899 save percentage and one shutout.

Upon the conclusion of his season in Russia, Askarov signed an amateur tryout contract with Nashville's AHL affiliate, the Milwaukee Admirals, but didn't appear in any games.

Askarov will likely start the 2022-23 season in the AHL with Milwaukee, but it wouldn't be shocking to see him appear in a few games in the NHL throughout the year.

The #Preds have signed goaltender Iaroslav Askarov to a three-year, entry-level contract that will begin in the 2022-23 season.https://t.co/inUF4Zwexz pic.twitter.com/CLEKPNWPsE— Nashville Predators (@PredsNHL) May 16, 2022