2. Alexandre Daigle
Alexandre Daigle was once labeled a “can’t miss” prospect and even drew comparisons to Mario Lemeiux. Prior to being drafted number one overall by the Ottawa Senators in the 1993 NHL Entry Draft, Daigle amassed 247 point (including 80 goals) in two season in the QMJHL.
After a promising rookie season, Daigle’s game fell off and he eventually was traded multiple times, with each team never living up to his hype.
Daigle left the NHL for two years before signing with the Wild for the 2003-2004 season. His performance was an unexpected surprise as he led all scorers on the Wild that season with 20 goals, 31 assists, and 51 points (ironically matching his season high point totals from his rookie season).
He was a Bill Masterson Memorial Trophy Finalist that year, for dedication and perseverance to the sport of hockey.
Daigle stayed for one more season but came back down to earth, scoring 28 points in 46 games. Daigle’s time with the Wild may have helped remove the label of “NHL’s biggest draft bust all-time”.
I personally was excited when Daigle signed with Minnesota, being both a Wild and Daigle fan it was pretty cool. After his time with the team he played six season in the National League (Switzerland), and faded away from the NHL spotlight.