Duo still lead the way

The Chicago Blackhawks and the San Jose Sharks each kept up their 100% start to the NHL season as Patrick Marleau made history for the latter.

Marleau's two goals in a 4-0 win over the Colorado Avalanche meant he has now started the season with four straight multi-goal games, a feat only previously achieved by Cy Denneny of Ottawa Senators in the 1917-18 season. He added an assist as his side completed their fourth successive win.

The Blackhawks have gone one better but had to work harder tonight for their fifth win. Goals from Dave Bolland, Bryan Bickell and Jonathan Toews took them to a 3-2 success against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

The New Jersey Devils are the league only other perfect team, having played three games.

The St Louis Blues remained just a game behind Chicago in the Central Division after a 4-3 win over the Dallas Stars, David Perron with two goals and an assist. The result also increased San Jose's lead over the Stars in the Pacific Division.

The Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers both won in a competitive Atlantic Division.

The Flyers blew past the Florida Panthers 7-1, Matt Read scoring his first NHL hat-trick and Tye McGinn opening his career goal account.

The Rangers were also in free-scoring form, at least once the first period was over, Marian Gaborik with two goals and two assists as they came from 2-0 down to beat the Toronto Maple Leafs 5-2.

The Anaheim Ducks edged out the Nashville Predators in a shootout after a 2-2 tie, Corey Perry with the decisive strike.

The Los Angeles Kings won the battle of Pacific Division rivals 4-2 against the the Phoenix Coyotes while the Calgary Flames beat the Edmonton Oilers 4-3.