Devils Even Series with Panthers; Brodeur Sets Shutout Record

Martin Brodeur bounced back from his shortest postseason performance with a record-setting 24th Stanley Cup playoff shutout, leading the New Jersey Devils to a 4-0 victory over the Florida Panthers Thursday night, tying their first-round series at 2-all.

Brodeur made 26 saves in taking over sole possession of the postseason shutout mark from Patrick Roy. The 39-year-old goaltender also added his second assist of the series, giving him 10 for his career, four behind all-time leader Grant Fuhr.

The effort came two days after Brodeur was lifted after giving up three goals in 22:18 in a 4-3 loss.

Zach Parise, Steve Bernier, Travis Zajac and Ilya Kovalchuk scored for New Jersey.

Game 5 of the best-of-7 series will be Saturday in Florida.

Brodeur made at least six outstanding saves in winning his 101st career postseason game, while seemingly benefiting from some early luck when Sean Bergenheim hit a goalpost.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)