NHL: Atlanta 4, New Jersey 0

NEWARK, N.J., Jan. 8 (UPI) -- Kari Lehtonen picked up his first shutout of the season Thursday by making 29 saves and leading the Atlanta Thrashers to a 4-0 decision over New Jersey.

It was the 12th NHL career save for Lehtonen, who had lost in five of his six previous appearances.

Ilya Kovalchuk had a goal and an assist for the Thrashers, who won for only the second time in eight games. Todd White had two assists, giving him 17 points in his last 15 outings.

Scott Clemmensen allowed three goals on 19 shots in his 13th straight start before being replaced by Kevin Weekes to start the third period.

The game was scoreless after one period, but Atlanta put it away with three in the second.

Colby Armstrong gave the Thrashers the lead with a backhander 3:03 into the period. Kovalchuk scored on the power play at 5:31 and Jim Slater added a goal with 6 minutes remaining in the frame.