Sharks Focus on Askarov’s Progress Despite Loss to Flyers
Philadelphia, PA – october 24, 2025 - While the San Jose Sharks fell to the Philadelphia Flyers, attention post-game centered on the encouraging performance of rookie goaltender Yaroslav Askarov and the potential turning point it represents for both the player and the team. The Sharks lost to the Flyers, but the focus shifted to Askarov’s improved play and the confidence boost it provides as he navigates his first full NHL season.
Askarov’s recent struggles have been a point of concern for the Sharks, but his performance against the Flyers offered a glimpse of the talent that made him a highly-touted prospect. the team and coaching staff are prioritizing Askarov’s progress and believe a confident goaltender is crucial for the Sharks’ success. This game marks a potential shift, offering a foundation for consistent performance and a vital step in establishing Askarov as a reliable NHL starter.
“I was stuck with myself as well.Still no idea what’s [going on] with me before,” Askarov said after the game, displaying an upbeat attitude.”I know I wasn’t playing great before. But today, it’s a new day, and this was a good game. Just trying to keep it going and be solid.” He highlighted improvements in his positioning and hand movements, adding, “Pretty much everything [felt good].Stationary [position]. Hands were good. Felt more confident.”
Head coach Ryan Warsofsky acknowledged Askarov’s impact,stating,”He was good. Made some astonishing saves. That’s a confidence booster for him.” Warsofsky also addressed the team’s second-period struggles,attributing them to “Too many penalties. That was the name of the game.” He emphasized the need for discipline, stating, ”We got to keep our sticks down. We’re gotta keep our legs moving.We have to understand where we are in shifts and manage those situations.”
Forward William Eklund echoed the positive sentiment regarding Askarov, calling him “phenomenal” and suggesting a simplified approach in the second period could generate more offense. “I think so. Get more shots to the net. Obviously, playing them back-to-back, it’s not going to feel the best today. Getting some more pucks to the net and getting guys at the net,that’s going to create scoring chances.”
Veteran Jeff Skinner also offered praise for rookie forward Collin Graf,describing him as “a good player,got a lot of skill…makes really good plays,really smart,smart player. Always in the right spot. Obviously,still a young guy,so he’s going to continue to improve.”
