3. Askarov Gets the Nod in Crunch Time for the Predators
Juuse Saros started the game and looked much better than his brief action in the doubleheader versus the Panthers. After Saros exited, the keys were turned over to Yaroslav Askarov in a low-scoring game.
This was an excellent time for Askarov to enter the game and get some experience in crunch time, even if it was against Tampa’s “C” squad.
Askarov held his own until the overtime period when the Predators took an untimely penalty to put the Lightning on a 4-on-3 power play. Not an easy situation to be in when you’re working in a new roster, and predictably, the Lightning got one past Askarov.
This was Askarov’s second appearance of the preseason, with him registering nine saves and surrendering zero goals against the Panthers. In this one, Askarov makes 10 saves on 11 shots and brings his running preseason total to 19 saves on 20 shots faced.
Askarov should likely get at least one more start over the last three preseason games remaining for the Predators.