NHL: New Jersey 5, Ottawa 1

NEWARK, N.J., Dec. 19 (UPI) -- Patrik Elias led the way Friday with two goals and two assists in the New Jersey Devils' easy 5-1 victory against the Ottawa Senators.

Elias started his four-point night by recording an assist with Paul Martin on Brian Gionta's ninth goal this season just 40 seconds into the first period. Later, he assisted on Johnny Oduya's power-play goal, also in the first, and added his own power-play tallies in the second and third periods.

Elias extended his point streak to nine straight games.

Travis Zajac had a goal and an assist. Zach Parise had four assists, while Scott Clemmensen made 24 saves on 25 shots in the opener of the Devils' four-game homestand.

Ottawa averted a shutout when Jarkko Ruutu scored shorthanded at 8:37 of the second period.

Alex Auld was beaten five times on 26 shots in the Senators' fifth loss in six games.