SUNRISE, Fla., April 13 (UPI) -- Martin Brodeur made 24 saves Friday and recorded his 100th playoff victory in backstopping New Jersey's 3-2 win over Florida in their series opener.
The Devils, who have not advanced past the first round of the playoffs in five years, got off to a good start behind their 19-year veteran goaltender.
New Jersey jumped to a 3-0 lead and then held on to claim home-ice advantage in a series that will continue Saturday with Florida hosting Game 2.
The Devils roughed up Jose Theodore for three goals in the first period with Patrik Elias, Dainius Zubrus and Ryan Carter all scoring.
The goals by Zubrus and Carter came just 45 seconds apart late in the period.
Brodeur surrendered second-period goals to Sean Bergenheim and Kris Versteeg, but then slammed the door while improving his career playoff record to 100-82.
Theodore allowed the three goals on 38 shots.
The Devils and Panthers were the last of the playoff teams to get started in the opening round.
