Mason to start Game 4

To nobody's surprise, the Flyers announced that Steve Mason will start in goal in Game 4 against the New York Rangers on Friday at the Wells Fargo Center.

When interviewed after Thursday's practice, Mason wouldn't confirm the news, but shortly after coach Craig Berube did.

"You guys couldn't figure that out?" Berube asked.

Actually it was expected but one never knows with the Flyers goaltending situation.

Mason had said on Monday that he wouldn't be available for Game 3 the next day.

It turned out he did get cleared to play, was the backup goalie and relieved Ray Emery. Mason played 7 minutes and 15 seconds in the Flyers 4-1 loss to the Rangers. New York leads the best-of-seven opening series 2-1.

That was Mason's first action since suffering his injury on April 12 in Pittsburgh during the second-to-last game of the regular season.

"He is ready to go," Berube said of Mason.

For his part Mason says he is encouraged by his progress.

"I felt good today," he said after Thursday's practice at the Skate Zone. "This is the second day in a row third day really, where there are no issues on the ice and it is a good feeling."

When asked if he was pain-free completely, Mason simply answered, "Yes."