Islanders 1, Devils 0
ISLANDERS 1, DEVILS 0: Anders Nilsson recorded his first career shutout in his second start by turning aside 24 shots and Kyle Okposo scored early in the second period as New York defeated visiting New Jersey.
Nilsson stopped 12 shots in the third period to become the first Islanders goalie to earn a shutout for his first career victory. The only other start for Nilsson was Nov. 21 against the Pittsburgh Penguins, when he allowed five goals - including two by Sidney Crosby.
The 21-year-old Swede has played in three NHL games overall.
Okposo battled his way to slot and beat Martin Brodeur with a wrist shot 2:39 into the second for the winner.
New York had 1:08 of a 5-on-3 power play midway through the second, but could not extend the lead.
The Islanders had a 10-6 edge in shots during the first period. Brodeur stopped all 10 and got a big defensive play from captain Zach Parise to thwart another chance and keep the game scoreless.
GAME NOTEBOOK: New Jersey's Petr Sykora played his 1,000th NHL game. ... The Islanders were 0 for 5 on the power play and Devils 0 for 1. ... The teams will play two more times in the next six days. ... Rookie F Casey Cizikas earned his third assist in three games. ... Nilsson was recalled to replace injured backup Al Montoya.