May 22, 2014; New York, NY, USA; New York Rangers fans cheer after a goal against the Montreal Canadiens during the first period in game three of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports
Hugh Jessiman, RW- (2003 first-round selection, twelfth overall)
He seemed to be perfect for the Rangers. He was 6’6, born in New York City, and attended Dartmouth College playing three years of hockey.
Hugh Jessiman was part of, what many regard as the deepest draft class in 2003. The names that were available would have blown your mind. And, Jessiman was included among them.
However, unlike his peers, he never sustained any success at the NHL-level. While many went on to see championship glory, Jessiman was trying to find his game with the Hartford Wolf Pack. He spent a little over three seasons, compiling 74 points (32 goals, 42 assists).
After being unable to make the Rangers, he bounced around the AHL. He finally made his NHL debut with the Florida Panthers during the 2010-2011. He would only play in two games and did not register a point.
Jessiman would return to the AHL, where he would spend three seasons (2011-2012 to 2012-2013). Then, he decided to take his game abroad and signed a contract to play in the KHL for the 2013-2014 season. Last season, he signed a one-year contract with the Vienna Capitals of the EBEL (Erste Bank Hockey League).
Key players passed over by the Rangers in draft class: Dustin Brown, Brent Seabrook, Zach Parise, Ryan Getzlaf, Ryan Kesler, Brent Burns, Corey Perry