The Detroit Red Wings, facing uncertainty in their goaltending depth chart, may have found a potential solution in a bold trade proposal involving the NHL’s top goalie prospect, Yaroslav Askarov. Askarov, currently with the Nashville Predators, is considered one of the most promising young goalies in the league but is stuck behind Juuse Saros, who recently inked a long-term deal to remain Nashville’s starting netminder.
The trade idea, generated by a fan using PuckPedia’s new PuckGM tool, would see the Red Wings acquire Askarov in exchange for a package that includes goaltender Alex Lyon, forward Jonatan Berggren, and a 2025 third-round draft pick. While the deal is speculative, it highlights the Red Wings’ need for a dependable long-term goaltender and the Predators’ potential willingness to part with a valuable asset.
Red Wings’ Goaltending Dilemma
Detroit’s goaltending situation has been a point of concern for the organization. Ville Husso, who was signed to a three-year, $14.25 million contract in 2022, has yet to deliver the consistent performances expected of a starting goalie. In an attempt to shore up the position, the Red Wings brought in veteran Cam Talbot on a two-year, $5 million deal during the offseason. While Talbot provides experience, the team still lacks a clear No. 1 goaltender capable of backstopping them into playoff contention.
This is where Askarov comes into the picture. Drafted 11th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft, Askarov has been developing in the AHL, where he posted a strong 30-13-1 record with a 2.39 GAA and a .911 save percentage last season. At just 22 years old, the Russian netminder appears ready for a full-time NHL role, but with Saros entrenched as Nashville’s starter, his path to the big league is blocked.
The Trade Proposal
In the proposed trade, Detroit would acquire Askarov, instantly adding a high-ceiling prospect to their roster who could potentially take over as their starting goalie. Askarov’s track record in the AHL and brief NHL stints suggest he could quickly adapt to a larger role with the Red Wings.
In return, the Predators would receive Alex Lyon, a seasoned backup who could provide depth for Nashville’s goaltending corps, whether in the NHL or AHL. The inclusion of Jonatan Berggren, a young forward drafted in the second round of the 2018 NHL Draft, adds value to the deal. Berggren, who recorded 6 points in 12 games with the Red Wings last season, has shown flashes of potential but is not yet established in the league. The 2025 third-round pick rounds out the offer, giving Nashville an additional asset for the future.
Nashville’s Dilemma and Askarov’s Future
Nashville has been reluctant to move Askarov, but NHL insider Elliotte Friedman recently reported that the Predators have been gauging interest around the league for their top prospect. Askarov has made it clear that he wants to play in the NHL next season and isn’t keen on another year in the AHL. With Saros firmly in place as the Predators’ starter, Askarov’s desire for an NHL role puts Nashville in a challenging position.
Should the Predators decide to move Askarov, a deal with the Red Wings could be a mutually beneficial solution. Detroit gets the goalie of the future they desperately need, while Nashville gains assets that can help them in other areas.
Red Wings’ Goaltending Outlook
Even with recent additions like Talbot and the potential of Lyon, the Red Wings are still searching for a franchise goalie. Askarov could be the answer, providing a young, talented option who could solidify the position for years to come. With the team’s goaltending in flux, this trade proposal could be a game-changer for Detroit as they look to return to playoff contention.
As the offseason progresses, this speculative deal is one to watch. Whether or not it comes to fruition, it underscores the Red Wings’ ongoing quest to solve their goaltending puzzle.
