But the best surprise for Mason this year has been the return of U.S. Olympian Kevin Miller. Miller, who has been recovering from the flu, should be ready to play this weekend.

"He will be healthy," Mason said "It gives us a lot of flexibility up front, something we didn't have early in the season."

Harvard is coming off one of its better showings of the year with its 7-1 victory over Vermont in the ECAC consolation game. That game meant the difference between hosting a series at Bright or being shipped out West.

Freshman Peter Ciavaglia (9-23--32) leads all Crimson scorers. Ciavaglia is both an ECAC All-Rookie Team and All-Tournament selection. Captain Steve Armstrong (14-15--29) and C.J. Young (13-16--29) are tied for second on the scoring list.

Young and linemate Ted Donato have been two hot icemen during the playoffs. In four playoff games, Young has tallied a 3-7--10 mark while Donato has a 5-4--9 clip.

Senior John Devin will start in net for the Crimson. After a shaky performance against Clarkson last Friday night, Devin rebounded with a solid game against the Catamounts. In 22 games, Devin has posted a .892 save percentage and a 2.87 g.a.a.

The Crimson, too, has been affected by the flu. Four Harvard skaters--Scott Farden, Andy Janfaza, John Murphy and Jerry Pawloski--have each missed at least a day of practice because of the flu. Defenseman Scott McCormack broke his arm during last Saturday's consolation victory over Vermont and will be out for the season.

Tickets, Tickets

A limited number of tickets are still available for this weekend's first round NCAA playoff series against Michigan State in the basement of Harvard Hall. All tickets cost $8. The series is Harvard's last home weekend of the season.