San Jose Sharks goalie Yaroslav Askarov did not discuss how the Nashville Predators treated him or his development plan.
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The goalie was asked if he felt he was treated fairly by GM Barry Trotz and the Predators organization.
“It’s hard to say now. I can [only] handle [so many] words because my English is not very [good],” Askarov said. “That’s why it’s hard to tell you. It’s a hard question. It is going to be hard to say. Sorry about that.”
The Predators Director of Goaltending, Mitch Korn, said the team had an extensive plan for the 22-year-old to become a star goalie in the NHL.
Related: Predators’ Director Of Goaltending Had Extensive Plan For Yaroslav Askarov’s Development
During his first in-person interview at Sharks training camp, Askarov was asked about his time with Nashville and the supposed plan.
“That is more personal. It is our secret. I am going to keep it,” Askarov said.
The young goalie was asked about reportedly requesting a trade after the Predators re-signed All-Star goalie Juuse Saros to an extension.
“I’m trying to keep focus on my game,” Askarov said. “[My agent and management], it’s not my focus. I try to keep focused on my game. That’s it.”
Askarov has spent most of his time in the AHL and understands that he still needs to improve his entire game to get to the NHL.
“I need to work on everything. I need to get better every day and work [on] all kinds of stuff,” Askarov said. “Like legs, arms, [and] stance. Just getting 1% better every day.”
Askarov was living with Shakir Mukhamadulllin but has since moved out.
Related: Shakir Mukhamadullin Is Housing His Childhood Friend Yaroslav Askarov
“I moved four or five days ago. I was really busy last week moving in stuff,” Askarov said. “[Shakir and I] checked out a couple [of restaurants]. “I actually like to eat more at home. I’m a bad cook here, but my wife cooks for me. She’s doing well.”
Askarov hasn’t skated during training camp because of a lower-body injury. The netminder said it isn’t a serious injury and expects to be back soon.
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