 Following the season, Paynter was selected in the 8th round, 159th overall, by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 1983 NHL Entry Draft held at the Montreal Forum in Montreal, Quebec.Paynter returned to the Rangers in the 1983-84 season, in which he saw his offensive production improve.In 65 games, Paynter scored nine goals and 36 points, finishing third among Rangers defensemen in points.