The most key aspect in all of this to me is the regular season start date. I'd prefer to see the season start on or before April 1st (no fooling).

Otherwise I support Mike's proposal and schedule, but if forced to choose I'd opt for no trading between drafts and to conduct the FA draft after the rookie drafty without taking a week break in between.

Ideally: I would prefer all that Mike suggested IF it could start one week earlier so that the season can start by April 1st.

Fred