Askarov has already played two full seasons in the AHL, with pretty good stats. 3 NHL games in those two years. Assets wise, I would've had Askarov as the backup for this year, and see what he is made of. Is Saros expendable.
Then again, the prices for Markström and Ullmark this offseason were.... not great.
I fully understand Askarov being pissed that they are now basically throwing him to the AHL again. He hasn't even had a proper chance in the NHL, though he deserves it.
But Nashville can't justify asking top price for him, no matter how good he is. Goalie prices are not great, and he isn't established in the NHL. I somehow have a feeling that Askarov is going to f*** over back to the KHL before the season starts because Trotz can't swallow his pride and admit that his trade value isn't as big as he thinks it is. And Askarov is pissed because he hasn't got a proper chance with Nashville and will never get it now.