The Daily: How Askarov Drama Came To Be; Datsyuk Fallout

Russell Vannozzi of Nashville Now wrote an insightful piece this week explaining about how the relationship between the Predators and goalie Yaroslav Askarov deteriorated.

“Askarov and the Predators didn’t reach this boiling point overnight,” Vannozzi wrote. “Here’s a look at the events which seemingly led the 2020 first-round pick to ask for a change of scenery.”

Vannozzi’s mapped out the path toward divorce:

1. GM Barry Trotz tried to move Askorov before 2023 draft because he was trying to land an early first-round pick.

2. Askarov played well this season, but had a poor finish to the season. During a 4-1 loss to the Texas Stars on May 4, Askarov had a meltdown when he tackled Texas captain Curtis McKenzie away from the puck, drawing a two-minute interference penalty. “It’s hard to imagine the embarrassing moment helped his standing with Nashville’s front office,” Vannozzi wrote. “Just three days after the incident Trotz said, “You can never over-marinate goaltenders (in the American Hockey League).”

3. The Predators signed veteran goalie Juuse Saros to an eight-year contract extension.

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

Former Red Wings player Pavel Datsyuk is receiving more backlash over the Hockey Hall of Fame’s decision to induct him into the HHOF while Russia is still trying to occupy the Ukraine.

Forgotten Detroit second-round draft pick is trying to make a comeback. Read Bob Duff’s story. 

Red Wings Offseason

Former Detroit player Filip Zadina was inadvertently pictured in a San Jose Sharks’ offseason social media post. But the Sharks tell San Jose Hockey Now that he is definitely coming back to the Sharks on a contract or a PTO.

Hockey Now Network

New Jersey: Jack and Lukeughes are cover boys for EA NHL 25 video game. New Jersey Devils.

Philadelphia:  The home of a Philadelphia Flyers’ player was significantly damaged in a house fire. Philadelphia Flyers.

Pittsburgh: Dan Kingerski gave the Penguins an A+ grade for their acquisition of Rutger McGroarty from the Winnipeg Jets. He also explains why the deal happened and discusses the fallout from such a big move. Pittsburgh Penguins