NHL: New Jersey 2, Montreal 1

NEWARK, N.J., Dec. 16 (UPI) -- Patrik Elias scored the game-winner Wednesday, lifting the New Jersey Devils to a 2-1 victory against the Montreal Canadiens.

Elias' seventh goal this season snapped a 1-1 tie at 17:24 of the third period, following assists by Brian Rolston and Vladimir Zharkov.

Ilkka Pikkarainen scored his first goal, while Martin Brodeur equaled boyhood idol Patrick Roy with his 1,029th regular-season appearances by an NHL goalie. Brodeur made 17 saves on 18 shots for the Devils, who have won six of seven.

Montreal's goal was scored by Travis Moen 7 (shorthanded, unassisted) at 12:23 of the first period.

Carey Price was beaten twice on 27 shots for the Canadiens, who have lost four in a row -- all by one goal.

On the power play, New Jersey went 0-for-5, while Montreal went 0-for-1.