NHL: New Jersey 3, Buffalo 2

BUFFALO, N.Y., April 4 (UPI) -- Martin Brodeur survived a 23-shot third period Saturday to lead the New Jersey Devils to a 3-2 victory against the Buffalo Sabres.

The loss was critical for the faint playoff hopes of the Sabres, and their 23 third-period shots illustrated their desperation in the Eastern Conference playoff picture.

With 85 points, the Sabres trail the New York Rangers by four in the battle for the eighth final playoff spot in the East.

New Jersey's goals were scored by David Clarkson (unassisted) and Zach Parise (power play), both in the first, and Jamie Langenbrunner in the second.

Brodeur made 35 saves on 37 shots. The Devils announced Saturday that backup goalie Kevin Weekes will miss up to three weeks with a lower-body injury.

Jochen Hecht and Clarke MacArthur scored for Buffalo. Sabres' goalies Ryan Miller and Mikael Tellqvist combined to give up three goals on 28 shots.