One of the best goal scorers in Kelowna Rockets franchise history is on the move.

On Wednesday, Jan. 8, the team announced the trade that sent Andrew Cristall to the Spokane Chiefs for 2007-born forward Hayden Paupanekis, two first round selections in 2025 and 2027, a second round pick in 2026, a third round pick in 2025 and a 2026 sixth round selection in the WHL Prospects Draft.

鈥淗e鈥檚 one of the best players that鈥檚 ever played for the Rockets," said Rockets President and General Manager Bruce Hamilton in a press release.

鈥淗e鈥檚 going to go on and have a great career. He sadly didn鈥檛 get the chance for the World Junior team and unfortunately, he鈥檚 going to come up a little short for the all-time points record for our organization, but he was a solid, solid player for us and more importantly, just a wonderful young man that we were lucky to have here for four years. He鈥檚 drafted and signed by Washington, so he鈥檒l be playing professionally next year so it was an opportunity for us to acquire a lot of assets.鈥�

Hamilton also added that watching Cristall play reminded him of watching Jamie Benn and Leon Drisaitl during their time with the Rockets in regards to how he's able to control the game.

"It鈥檚 a loss for our team but he gets the chance to play for the Memorial Cup this year with Spokane and he gives them a big offensive boost," said Hamilton.

Cristall is second in scoring in Rockets franchise history with 340 points (135 goals, 205 assists). He played 219 games for the team averaging 1.55 points per game. He was the Rockets first selection (eighth overall) in the 2020 WHL Prospects Draft.

鈥淲e are very excited to add Andrew to our organization," said Chiefs General Manager Matt Bardsley. He is a dynamic forward who is a threat to score or create offence every time he is on the ice. His experience in the league along with 20 games of playoff experience will be a welcomed addition to our team. When speaking with the Washington Capitals, they spoke highly of Andrew and the progression in his overall game."

In return, Kelowna acquired Paupanekis, who's in his second full season in the WHL. In 101 regular season games, the Winnipeg, MB native has 21 goals and 44 points. 

"We got a great young player coming back,鈥� said Hamilton, who added he's a player the Rockets had targeted and are really excited about. Additionally, the Rockets now have two first-round picks in each of the next three drafts. 

鈥淲e got the opportunity to help stock the cupboard with these draft picks that will allow us the chance to be active in the spring and summer," added Hamilton.

"When making a significant move like this, it usually means having to part ways with a very good player," said Bardsley. "It was tough to say goodbye to Hayden as he is a quality young man, who is having a good season with a bright future in this game. I felt comfort in knowing that he would be going to a good organization in Kelowna with the opportunity to play in the Memorial Cup next year."

It won't be long for Cristall to return to Kelowna as the Rockets host the Chiefs at Prospera Place on Wednesday, Jan. 15. Puck drop is at 7:05 p.m.

Kelowna is back in action on Friday, Jan. 10 when they welcome the Prince George Cougars to town for a 7:05 puck drop. 

The WHL's trade deadline is at 5 p.m. Pacific on Thursday, Jan. 9.