“I don’t know whether it’s to generate more offense,” Reese said, “or just to try some new things.”

Donato wouldn’t speculate as to how he’d use the six come Friday night’s ECAC contest with Union, but said that several factors played into the changes at practice this week.

“With injuries and poor play and a boatload of other things, we’re forced into using different combinations at times,” he said. “We want to keep them on their feet, give ’em a few new looks. But I don’t know as of yet if we’re going to make any drastic changes. That’s for sure.”

ALONG THE BOARDS

Bernakevitch skated at practice yesterday after missing Saturday’s game against Clarkson with what Donato called an inner-thigh contusion. The senior, who is second on the Crimson with seven assists, is expected to return to action this weekend...Maki reentered the lineup this weekend following a four-game absence due to damaged rib cage cartilage. He skated with classmates Kevin Du and Steve Mandes...Freshman Mike Taylor—held without a point through his first five games—extended his personal scoring streak to three games with a goal against St. Lawrence and an assist on Cavanagh’s game-winner on Saturday against Clarkson. Taylor’s is Harvard’s fourth-longest active streak behind those of Bernakevitch, Cavanagh and Welch, who have each scored in their last six starts.

—Staff writer Timothy J. McGinn can be reached at mcginn@fas.harvard.edu.