Yaroslav Askarov

Askarov's dominant performance presents strong case to stay in NHL

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Editor's note: Sheng Peng is a regular contributor to NBC Sports California’s Sharks coverage. You can read more of his coverage on San Jose Hockey Now, listen to him on the San Jose Hockey Now Podcast, and follow him on Twitter at @Sheng_Peng.

EDMONTON, Alberta — How long can the Sharks keep Yaroslav Askarov in the AHL?

Askarov showed once again, in a brilliant 39-save performance, that he’s the best goalie in San Jose's organization.

This is what scouts were telling San Jose Hockey Now before the Sharks traded starter Mackenzie Blackwood two weeks ago.

Luke Kunin and Jan Rutta scored, and Askarov was especially unbeatable in the second period, when he made 23 saves, nearly equaling a 28-year-old Sharks franchise record. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough to secure victory as San Jose's late-game issues again resurface in a 3-2 OT loss to the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday at Rogers place.

Askarov currently is only up because Vitek Vanecek suffered an unlucky facial injury on Tuesday, when an errant puck struck him on the bench. There’s still no timeline for when Vanecek will be back.

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