In theory, no player in the league is untouchable. Assuming the salaries would work, would Pittsburgh turn down an Ovechkin + Backstrom for Crosby + Kunitz deal? No. But what is the likelihood that they will get a deal so good that they can’t pass it up? Slim to none. Untouchable really only applies to trades where it is seemingly equal, or you may be marginally better off. If Boston was to offer us our 2 first rounders back in exchange for Luke Schenn, I think Burke would do that. But what is the likelihood he gets a deal like that? Not gonna happen.

So, the “untouchables” on Toronto’s roster are Kessel, Hagman, Kadri, Schenn, Gunnarson, Gustavsson and Stalberg. There are all players who if we are presented with an equal deal, should probably say no to. These guys are the present and future of the team, and should not be dealt unless the deal is too good to pass up – but under that scenario, nobody in the NHL is untouchable.