NHL Insider reveals other finalists who almost landed Yaroslav Askarov.

Though he went to the San Jose Sharks, Elliotte Friedman revealed that two other teams almost landed top goalie prospect Yaroslav Askarov.

Most analysts agree that Yaroslav Askarov is set up to become a generational goaltending talent. The Nashville Predators saw this early on and drafted him at 11th overall in 2020. However, he has been given very little NHL opportunity to show why he is considered the top goaltending prospect. Ultimately, this led to his choice to ask to be traded from the team, sparking discussions on his future home.

However, the wait for this news just ended afterthe Nashville Predators traded him beside Nolan Burke and a 2025 third-round pick with the San Jose Sharks, who returned David Edstrom, Magnus Chrona, and a first-round pick. Shortly after this news first broke, the team finalized a two-year contract with the goaltending prospect. According to GM Mike Grier, the team had their eyes on him for a long time before the trade occurred.

However, it appears the San Jose Sharks were not their only team near a deal with Yaroslav Askarov. According to NHL Insider and Sportsnet broadcaster Elliotte Friedman, the Montreal Canadiens, and New Jersey Devils were close to a deal for the goaltender themselves, but could not make the right deal with the Nashville Predators.

Both the Montreal Canadiens and New Jersey Devils could have befitted from a serious future goaltender, it was clear neither had what Nashville wanted in return. Regardless, Yaroslav Askarov will draw more fans to San Jose hockey. If not with his skill, at least with his antics and bold personality.

Source: Habs FanaticsFriedman reports the Canadiens were in on the Askarov trade: The price Hughes should've paid is revealed

Maple Leafs' Nikita Grebenkin faces possible suspension while making his season debut

NHL All-Star and legendary enforcer has publicly put two famous icons on blast for Jim Montgomery's firing

TSN's Craig Button rips the Oilers apart on national TV with some very harsh words

Suspension highly possible after Zach Whitecloud hits Matthew Knies in head similarly to Ryan Reaves

Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube speaks out in support of rival head coach Jim Montgomery after his firing

Source reveals new Edmonton Oiler Kasperi Kapanen is potentially on his last stint in the NHL

Bruins GM Don Sweeney puts all players and entire staff on notice: shocking revelation revealed

JT Miller's wife involved in wild rumors revolving around his personal leave from Canucks

Red Wings on the verge of firing coach? Famous Detroit legend could be stepping in to save team

Brad Treliving clarifies everything behind all the secrecy of Leafs' Auston Matthews injury