NHL: New Jersey 4, Carolina 2

NEWARK, N.J., Dec. 10 (UPI) -- Andy Greene scored twice Wednesday, leading the New Jersey Devils to a 4-2 win over the Carolina Hurricanes.

His fourth goal gave New Jersey a 2-0 lead at 17:53 of the first period and his fifth (power play) upped the lead to 3-0 at 6:05 of the second.

Patrik Elias and Rob Niedermayer (empty net) (unassisted) scored one goal apiece.

Zach Parise had two assists, while net-minder Martin Brodeur stopped 21 of 23 shots, failing in his bid to pull with Terry Sawchuk for the NHL's career shutout record, for the Devils, who have won four in a row.

Carolina's goals were scored in the second period by Brandon Sutter and Tuomo Ruutu (power play).

Goalie Cam Ward, activated from the injured list Tuesday (thigh), yielded three goals on 30 shots in his first game since Nov. 7 for the Hurricanes, who had won their previous two outings.