The nadir came in 1991, when superstar Eric Lindros refused to sign with the Nordiques after they selected him with the No. 1 overall pick in the draft.
WSJ: Quebec: The Only Thing Missing Is a Team
2.
By trading Lindros's rights to the Philadelphia Flyers for a stockpile of players and draft picks, the Nordiques were able to rebuild their roster and renew the city's enthusiasm.