6. Vancouver Canucks
Key Moves: Evander Kane (trade with EDM), Brock Boeser (re-signed), Thatcher Demko (re-signed)
The Vancouver Canucks made one really good move and one really not-so-good move to land them sixth on this list. The biggest positive was the Canucks being able to re-sign Brock Boeser at a time where it seemed almost guaranteed that he would be leaving for a new team this summer.
Boeser was one of the top free agents in free agency and to bring him back on a seven-year deal with an AAV of $7.25 million was an excellent move. However, the trade for Evander Kane was questionable as they took on a sizeable contract that helps a division rival.
5. San Jose Sharks
Key moves: Dmitry Orlov (free agent addition), John Klingberg (free agent addition), Jeff Skinner (free agent addition), Michael Misa (first-round draft pick)
The San Jose Sharks were one of the teams with the most cap space entering free agency and could have overspent to bring in players. However, they were also very selective with the moves they made by adding veterans like Dmitry Orlov, John Klingberg and Jeff Skinner to one or two year deals at a reasonable AAV.
By making the moves they did, it not only doesn't hurt future salary caps but also could bring in additional value around the trade deadline. If the Skarks are out of contention, those veterans could be attractive trade options around the league and they have maximized their value.