The trade market typically kicks into overdrive around the two, and that certainly was the case this year, with several blockbuster deals completed.
But what team is the most improved since the draft began?
Seven NHL.com writers weigh in with their opinions here (teams listed in alphabetical order):
Boston Bruins
The Bruins upgraded despite uncertainty surrounding goalie Tuukka Rask (hip surgery) and center David Krejci (unrestricted free agent) by signing goalie Linus Ullmark, defenseman Derek Forbort and forwards Nick Foligno, Erik Haula and Tomas Nosek. Ullmark will split the goaltending duties with rookie Jeremy Swayman, and Boston will be even stronger in net if Rask returns during the season. Forbort (6-foot-4, 219 pounds) brings size. With Taylor Hall returning after signing a four-year, $24 million contract July 23, and the additions of Foligno, Haula and Nosek, the Bruins have the forward depth they've been lacking, and they'll be even deeper if Krejci re-signs. -- Tom Gulitti, staff writer
To augment Tom's point, the Bruins understand their window to challenge for the Stanley Cup in the Patrice Bergeron era could close in the next few years, so they identified positions of need to stay relevant in the championship hunt. Bergeron, 36, and linemate Brad Marchand, 33, each has plenty left in the tank, but Boston is taking no chances about how long that might last. The addition of Foligno was especially impressive. The 33-year-old can play center or wing, and he brings toughness. -- Mike Zeisberger, staff writer
Edmonton Oilers
With the loss of defenseman Adam Larsson to the Seattle Kraken in the 2021 NHL Expansion Draft, the continuing absence of defenseman Oscar Klefbom because of a chronic shoulder injury, and a lack of depth at forward, the Oilers had major concerns a week ago. That changed when they re-signed defenseman Tyson Barrie, signed defenseman Cody Ceci and forwards Zach Hyman and Derek Ryan, and acquired forward Warren Foegele in a trade with the Carolina Hurricanes. Those moves put Edmonton into the much-improved category as it seeks to exploit the talents of the past two winners of the Hart Trophy voted as NHL MVP, Connor McDavid (2020-21) and Leon Draisaitl (2019-20). -- Tim Campbell, staff writer