Zapata inks deal to return to Oilers

TULSA, Okla. —The Tulsa Oilers, ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League’s Anaheim Ducks and the American Hockey League’s San Diego Gulls, announced the signing of forward Dante Zapata to a contract and for the 2023-24 season.

Zapata, 24, returns to Tulsa after registering three points (1g-2a) in 12 games for the Oilers last season upon the completion of his collegiate career. Prior to joining the Oilers, Zapata played at Utica University, compiling 117 points (44g-73a) and a +21 rating in 96 games with the Pioneers. He won three United Collegiate Hockey Conference titles with Utica, earning three All-Tournament Team selections, two Tournament MVP berths, two All-Conference Team selections and Player of the Year honors while also serving as team captain from 2021-23.

A native of Huntington, California, Zapata played his junior hockey in the North American Hockey League, finishing his career with 74 points (23g-51a) in 154 games with the Austin Bruins.