The New Jersey Devils ended 2013 in fine fashion as they picked up a 2-1 win over a division rival in the Pittsburgh Penguins.

It wasn't all positive, though, as in the process the Devils lost their best and most consistent forward in team history, though it doesn't appear to be serious.

Elias was injured on his first shift of the game, went down the tunnel to the locker room and did not return.

Some thought it to be a serious injury, but Pete DeBoer told Tom Gulitti that he's optimistic it is something minor. The Devils' bench boss is hoping No. 26 will be good to play this weekend when the Devils take on the defending Stanley Cup Champs and the Buffalo Sabres in a back-to-back situation.

DeBoer labeled Elias' injury as body soreness which means it should not be a matter of weeks or months, but rather days.

That needs to be the case as Elias is a pillar of the Devils' offense and is one of the best and most consistent players the team has. They can't afford to lose him for any length of time as they need all hands on deck during their chase for a playoff spot.

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Cory Schneider snubbed from USA's Olympic team

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