LOWELL, Mass. (AP) – Rookie goalie David McKee, recently promoted from the East Coast Hockey League, kicked out 36 shots to record his third straight victory, backstopping the surging Portland Pirates to a 3-1 victory over the Lowell Devils Friday night.

The sixth-place Pirates have won three straight with McKee in net in a late rush to make the playoffs in the AHL’s Atlantic Division.

Mike Hoffman put Portland ahead with a goal at 10:59 of the first period. The Pirates made it 3-0 with second-period goals from Mike Hartigan at 11:05 and Ryan Carter at 16:45.

while Portland was on a power play.

Mike Pandolfo spoiled McKee’s bid for his second straight shutout with a goal at 2:09 of the third period.

Fifth-place Lowell outshot Portland 37-24.