"Our team has a future," a Tufts hockey official said yesterday, "but we won't realize it tonight." The game to-night between the Jumbos and the varsity hockey team at 8 p.m. on the Watson rink should bear out this analysis.

The Tufts sextet enters this game with a 2 and 4 record, with losses to Army, Yale, Colby, and Brown. With the exception of one junior and one senior, every player on its team is a sophomore. While this is one of the better teams the Jumbos have had in recent years, it is not one that can compete successfully with the Crimson.

Despite its 3 and 8 record, the varsity is one of the best hockey teams in the East. After playing such teams as Minnesota, North Dakota, and the U.S. Amateurs, the Crimson should view the Jumbos with some relief.

Dave Wilson, the only senior on the team, will start in goal for Tufts. Wilson came out for the team only two days before the first game, when the regular goalie was hit in the face with a puck. The only other two definite starters will be Bruce Benson at defense and high-scorer Win Godleski on the first line. Godleski scored three goals in one minute against Colby.

As for the varsity lineup, Coach Cooney Weiland said last night that he plans to do "a little experimenting." Tab Cleary will probably open in goal, while Dan Ullyot and Pete Bragdon will play at defense. Bragdon, just up from the J.V.'s, is substituting for Dick McLaughlin, who is giving his injured ankle a rest.

The other defense includes Mo Balboni, Mike Graney and Bob McVey. Captain Bob Cleary, Lyle Guttu, and Terry O'Malley make up the new first line.