Esteves inks deal with Wichita

WICHITA, Kan. – The Wichita Thunder, ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers and American Hockey League's Bakersfield Condors, announced that forward Gianluca Esteves has been signed for the 2022-23 season.

Esteves, 25, had 24 points (9g-15a) in 57 games as a rookie for the Cincinnati Cyclones in 2021-22. Wichita acquired his rights to complete a trade last month.

Prior to turining pro, Esteves tallied 14 points (4g-10a) in 96 career games at Michigan State University.

Esteves played one season in the North American Hockey League for the Aston Rebels to close out his junior career. He collected 45 points (17g-28a) in 60 games and added nine points (5g-4a) in 12 playoff games as he earned a spot on the NAHL Robertson Cup All-Tournament Team.