Sharks Rookie Goalie Askarov Named Rookie of the Year

23-year-old Russian netminder sets franchise rookie records in first full NHL season

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:04am

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the dynamic movements and raw athleticism of a hockey goaltender, conveying the excitement and promise of the Sharks' Rookie of the Year.Askarov's dynamic rookie season performance earns him the Sharks' top rookie honor, signaling a bright future for the team's goaltending.San Jose Today

The San Jose Sharks announced that 23-year-old goaltender Yaroslav Askarov has been selected as the team's 2025-26 Rookie of the Year, marking the first time a Sharks netminder has received the award since Evgeni Nabokov in 2000-01. Askarov, who was acquired from the Nashville Predators in 2024, has posted a 21-19-3 record across 45 appearances this season, leading NHL rookie goalies in several key statistical categories.

Why it matters

Askarov's impressive rookie campaign is a significant milestone for the Sharks, who have struggled to develop consistent goaltending talent in recent years. His emergence as a top young netminder provides hope for the franchise's future and could signal a changing of the guard in the team's crease.

The details

In his first full NHL season, Askarov has led all rookie goalies in saves (1,128), appearances (45), starts (45), and time on ice (2,471:50). He is second among first-year netminders in wins with 21, just five shy of the Sharks' rookie record set by Evgeni Nabokov in 2000-01. Askarov posted an 8-2-0 record in November with a .947 save percentage, the best monthly performance by a Sharks goalie in franchise history. He has also recorded six games with 35 or more saves, including four with 38 stops.

  • Askarov earned his 20th win of the season on March 30 against the St. Louis Blues.
  • In November, Askarov posted an 8-2-0 record with a .947 save percentage, the best monthly performance by a Sharks goalie in franchise history.
  • Askarov recorded a career-long four-game winning streak from November 1-11.

The players

Yaroslav Askarov

A 23-year-old Russian goaltender who was acquired by the San Jose Sharks from the Nashville Predators in 2024. In his first full NHL season, he has emerged as the Sharks' starting goaltender and a top rookie netminder in the league.

Evgeni Nabokov

A former Sharks goaltender who won the Rookie of the Year award in 2000-01, the last time a Sharks netminder received the honor before Askarov.

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What they’re saying

“Yaroslav has been a rock for us in net this season, and his performance as a rookie has been truly exceptional. We're thrilled to see him earn this well-deserved recognition from the local media.”

— Mike Grier, General Manager, San Jose Sharks

What’s next

Askarov will look to continue his strong play as the Sharks push for a playoff spot in the final weeks of the season. The team will hope his emergence as a top young goaltender can help stabilize the position for years to come.

The takeaway

Yaroslav Askarov's Rookie of the Year award is a significant milestone for the Sharks, who have struggled to develop consistent goaltending talent in recent years. His impressive debut season provides hope for the franchise's future and could signal a changing of the guard in the team's crease.