Year in Review: Kai Schwindt
After signing a contract with the Florida Panthers, left-winger Kai Schwindt saw success in his sophomore year with the Steelheads.
Joining the Steelheads as a free agent for the 2021-22 season, Kai Schwindt impressed on the ice in his rookie season, posting 17 points (12G, 5A). Following in his brother and Steelheads alum Cole Schwindt’s footsteps, the Kitchener native was invited to the Florida Panthers rookie camp in September. The forward turned heads in South Florida, and was offered a contract with the team as a free agent, signing on September 30, 2022.
Returning to Mississauga, Schwindt started the year off with a bang, putting up 9 points (4G, 5A) in the month of October. On October 21 versus the Hamilton Bulldogs, the left-winger’s talent was on full display. Scoring his first career hat-trick, Schwindt also registered two assists for an incredible five-point game, the second most points a Steelhead has scored in a single game in franchise history. The forward went on to be the Steelheads’ leading goal-scorer against the Hamilton Bulldogs this season with six goals against the team.
Schwindt’s season was highlighted by big goals in important moments. The forward tied for third place on the team with 5 power play goals this season and scored a shorthanded goal against the Bulldogs. His two game winning goals also tie him in second place in that category for Mississauga. On December 4 versus the London Knights, Schwindt scored the Teddy Bear Toss goal just minutes after the puck dropped in the first period, sending the bears flying onto the ice.
The left-winger finished the season surpassing his rookie numbers with 25 points (12G, 13A). He continued to showcase his abilities during the playoff series against the North Bay Battalion, scoring his first career playoff goal in Game 6. Following the conclusion of the playoffs, Schwindt joined the Charlotte Checkers of the AHL for the remainder of their season.
Looking Ahead
Between signing with the Florida Panthers and scoring his first hat trick, Schwindt’s hard work has translated into both on and off the ice success. With his overage season ahead, the left-winger will look to take his game to the next level.
