Yanni Kaldis (born May 23, 1999) is a Greek-Canadian professional ice hockey defenceman. He currently plays within the Florida Panthers organization, having signed an American Hockey League (AHL) contract with their affiliate, the Charlotte Checkers. Kaldis is known for his successful collegiate career at Cornell University before turning professional.
Early Life and Junior Career Born in Montreal, Quebec, Kaldis played minor hockey in the Quebec system. He progressed through the junior hockey ranks, featuring in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), one of Canada's top major junior leagues. During his QMJHL career, he played for several teams, including the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, the Drummondville Voltigeurs, and the Charlottetown Islanders.
Collegiate Career Kaldis committed to Cornell University, where he played four seasons of NCAA Division I ice hockey in the ECAC Hockey conference from 2019 to 2023. At Cornell, he established himself as a reliable two-way defenceman, contributing offensively while maintaining strong defensive play. He served as an alternate captain during his senior year, demonstrating leadership qualities within the team.
Professional Career Following the completion of his collegiate career, Kaldis signed an AHL contract with the Charlotte Checkers, the primary affiliate of the National Hockey League's (NHL) Florida Panthers, for the 2023-24 season. He has also spent time playing for the Florida Everblades in the ECHL, gaining experience in professional hockey across different leagues.
Playing Style Kaldis is recognized as a mobile defenceman with good puck-moving abilities and a strong understanding of the game. He plays a disciplined style, excelling in both defensive zone coverage and contributing to offensive transitions.
Personal Life Kaldis holds dual Canadian and Greek citizenship.
References
- Elite Prospects
- AHL Official Website
- Cornell Athletics