Five Prospects Who Should Be Untouchable

Here is my list, not in any particular order. I know some people like to say that anybody can be traded but the league has changed and replacing some of these players would be difficult and costly. 

1. Brandt Clarke -I like his hockey brain and his skating. I think he’s a #1 or #2 defenseman in this league. Having 25 points so far in this league as a defenseman is good. Especially when you’re just 22. Hey, nobody is immune to being scratched but the Kings traded Brock Faber, and if they dealt Clarke, who would be there when Drew Doughty is done? 
2. Gabe Perreault – There is a chance that he is a second-line center. But there might be a greater chance that he is a top-line wing. A playmaking winger. He’s gotten much stronger and harder to contain since last year. 
3. Jesper Wallstedt – Some goalies look like career #1 guys and this Swede is on that path for sure. Yes, the Wild have Filip Gustavsson, and he has a new three-year deal. During that tenure, this netminder will push him for the job. He’s 22, not having his best year, and had an undisclosed injury for a spell. Goalies take time to develop.
4. Ryan Leonard – He has turned into that pain in the ass, heel player, who has speed, skill, and the ability to play around the net. He’s smart and fearless and the Capitals have a future star in him. He will be a part of their future leadership group and one of their best players.
5. Ivan Demidov – The Canadiens should wait as long as necessary for this future star. I’m sure they will but I want to mention how good he is. Who cares if he is losing some ice time in Russia. His contract is up and that’s what happens to players who are close to making the NHL. I think he can do what Matvei Michkov (who is in no danger of ever being traded) is doing and possibly more. 

There are a lot more who I could add but these guys come to mind as we head into the NHL trade deadline and beyond. These players are untouchable in my mind.