 Paynter joined the Kitchener Rangers of the OHL in 1982-83 after he was drafted by the club in the 3rd round, 44th overall, during the 1982 OHL Priority Selection.In his first season with the Rangers, Paynter scored four goals and 15 points in 65 games, helping Kitchener finish second in the Emms Division.In the post-season, Paynter scored a goal in 12 games.