San Jose Sharks goaltender Yaroslav Askarov has acknowledged the significant influence of Mackenzie Blackwood during his transition to the team. Askarov joined the Sharks in August 2024, following a trade from the Nashville Predators, and expressed his gratitude for Blackwood’s support amid language barriers and the challenges of adjusting to a new environment.
Askarov recalled, “I’m still not speaking (English) really well, but last year was worse. He was like, ‘Hey buddy, if you need to say something, just take your time. I’m going to be waiting. I’m going to be listening to you.’ Not everybody’s like that.” This camaraderie has been essential for Askarov, especially during his early days with the Sharks.
In December 2023, the Sharks traded Blackwood, along with forward Givani Smith and a fifth-round pick in 2027, to the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for goaltender Alexandar Georgiev, winger Nikolai Kovalenko, and additional draft picks. Despite this trade, Blackwood’s presence lingered in San Jose, particularly in Askarov’s development.
Askarov’s recent performance has solidified his role as the Sharks’ starting goalie, especially after a strong showing in the team’s 3-2 overtime victory against the Avalanche on November 1, 2024. In that game, Askarov made 36 saves, while Blackwood, who was playing his first game of the season, recorded 20 saves. Askarov’s success has been highlighted by his impressive record of 7-1-0 for the month of November, boasting a .959 save percentage, which ranks him second in the NHL among goalies with at least five starts.
Askarov’s respect for Blackwood extends beyond their on-ice relationship. He stated, “He doesn’t have bad days. He always has fun. He’s smiling, jokes around. It helps during the long hockey season.” This positive attitude has contributed to Askarov’s focus and enjoyment of the game.
Despite the Sharks’ struggles following the trade, with Georgiev and Kovalenko both returning to Russia and not meeting expectations, the team’s management remains optimistic about Askarov’s future. Coach Ryan Warsofsky praised Blackwood’s work ethic, stating, “(Blackwood) was great for our group. He worked really, really hard on his craft. I think that’s something that probably Askarov picked up the most.”
The Sharks’ decision to trade Blackwood was partly influenced by their confidence in Askarov, who spent the previous season primarily with the AHL’s Barracuda. Askarov’s ability to adapt and thrive in a new environment speaks volumes about his potential as the Sharks’ goaltender of the future.
As the Sharks continue to navigate through the season, Askarov’s development, aided by Blackwood’s mentorship, could be a pivotal factor in shaping the franchise’s long-term success. The camaraderie shared between these two goalies highlights the importance of support and teamwork in professional sports, particularly in a high-pressure environment like the NHL.
