Devils take 3-0 series lead on Rangers

Patrik Elias set up Jamie Langenbrunner 68 seconds after the opening faceoff and then scored his third goal of the series 8 minutes later in the Devils' 3-0 victory over surprise starter Jaromir Jagr and the New York Rangers on Wednesday night.

Martin Brodeur stopped 25 shots for his 21st career postseason shutout, two off the NHL mark held by Patrick Roy, as the Devils won their 14th straight game.

New Jersey built a commanding 3-0 series lead in the best-of-seven matchup by scoring three goals at even strength.

* Colorado also took a 3-0 series lead Wednesday night, beating the visiting Dallas Stars 4-3 in overtime.

Colorado hosts Game 4 on Friday night.

* Peter Forsberg scored two goals and Robert Esche made 26 saves to give the Philadelphia Flyers a 4-2 victory against Buffalo.

The Sabres still lead the best-of-seven series 2-1 with Game 4 on Friday night, also in Philadelphia.

* Eric Staal scored a power-play goal 3:38 into overtime to help Carolina avoid falling into a 3-0 hole with a 2-1 victory against Montreal.

-- The Associated Press