Hayden Paupanekis – 2025 NHL Draft Prospect Profile – The Hockey Writers –

Hayden Paupanekis

2024-25 Team: Spokane Chiefs/ Kelowna Rockets (WHL)
Date of Birth: Feb. 04, 2007
Place of Birth: Winnipeg, MB, CAN
Ht: 6-foot-4 Wt: 203 pounds
Shoots: R
Position: C
NHL Draft Eligibility: 2025 first-year eligible

Rankings

When you’re a prospect that’s the main piece in a major trade, a team definitely sees the upside and potential. Hayden Paupanekis was the centre piece that saw him go from the Spokane Chiefs to the Kelowna Rockets for Andrew Cristall. Pauapanekis had decent production with the Chiefs, scoring 11 goals and having 24 points in 39 games. That production continued with 11 more goals and 19 points in 32 games with the Rockets. 

While Cristall continued to torch the competition and go on a deep playoff run, Paupanekis showed promise throughout the season. He’s been a player that has been flying under the radar as we inch closer to the draft. 

Paupanekis thrives on being an intimidating presence with his 6-foot-4, 203-pound frame. He’s effective on both sides of the puck, showing great awareness and positioning without it. He moves very well for his size, having a long stride and when he picks up speed, he’s able to power through defenders, cut to the inside and drive hard to the net. He’s energetic and plays with an intense side to his game. 

He’s effective in the tight spaces, battling down low and along the boards and is always using that side to his advantage in order to get that inside track and win them. He protects the puck well when coming out of them, fending off players easily, dropping his shoulder and powering through to the middle of the ice. He has good control of the puck in transition and leading an attack. He works give-and-go’s quickly and finds the open passing lanes very well to connect with his teammates.

Related: THW’s 2025 NHL Draft Guide

However, it’s his ability to do damage in the high danger area that stands out. Whether it’s driving to the shooting lane or crashing the net, he’s making his presence felt. His hands in tight allows him to have quick control and fool players. He’s constantly generating scoring chances whenever he can, possessing a very strong and accurate shot and can find the back of the net easily, be it from the top of the circle or down near the goal line. He can walk in for a rebound opportunity and capitalize successfully.

Despite having the size and…