“We know that when we play them,” Corriero said. “It’s going to be a great game and a tough game, a challenge, and really exciting to play in.”
The implications of these meetings extend beyond pride and bragging rights. A tournament crown for Yale would miraculously keep its season alive, garnering it an automatic berth into the NCAA Tournament, while multiple wins for either Harvard or St. Lawrence would likely push them into position to host its opening-round contest.
Stakes aside, the familiarity of these foes ensures games that are expertly prepared for and closely contested. And with all that is on the line as the weeks wind down to the Frozen Four, expect a memorable two days of hockey.
“If you want to compete for a national championship,” Stone said. “You have to play hard and tough hockey in the playoffs.”
—Staff writer Jonathan Lehman can be reached at jlehman@fas.harvard.edu.