Askarov exits ice first, expected to start Thursday

Yaroslav Askarov was the first goalie off the ice ahead of Thursday's home matchup with Los Angeles, as reported by Sheng Peng of San Jose Hockey Now, indicating he will be between the pipes. The 23-year-old netminder has been performing well recently, going 5-1-0 with a 1.31 GAA in his last six contests. For the 2025 season, his current stats are 6 wins, 5 losses, 0 shutouts, a 2.99 GAA, and a .905 SV% through 12 outings, already setting a new personal best in wins. Askarov signed a two-year, $4 million contract extension with the Sharks in August of 2024. He figures to see plenty of work ahead of Alex Nedeljkovic and should be capable of challenging for the 20-win threshold.