NHL Trade Rumors: Detroit Red Wings and Aging Teams Who Must Get Younger

After knocking off the Dallas Stars to extend their home winning streak to a historic 21 games, the Detroit Red Wings have established themselves as the hottest and arguably best team in the NHL right now.

They're also the oldest.

Led by geezers such as Pavel Datsyuk, Johan Franzen and Nicklas Lidstrom, Detroit has an average age of just under 30.

With a number like that, you may be wondering how they are able to skate, let alone get out of bed in the morning, but the Red Wings are certainly making it work. They not only have made history with their current winning streak, but they also have a league-leading 80 points.

Father time is not happy.

Nonetheless, as the NHL trade deadline approaches, injecting some youth could be highly beneficial. I'd probably guess Detroit doesn't make a move, but they've been linked with Rick Nash, and—while doubtful—the 27-year-old wing would certainly add some youth.

What other teams could use a movement to the next generation?

Tampa Bay Lightning

With the play of 22-year-old Steven Stamkos, the Lightning know very well how fun it can be to have a budding young star on your team. 

Of course, Tampa Bay also has guys such as Martin St. Louis and Vincent Lecavalier who are getting up there in age. 

With 54 points, the Lightning certainly aren't out of the playoff race, but it's very unlikely they'll crack the Top 8 in East. According to the Tampa Tribune's Erik Erlendsson, the Lightning will be sellers at the deadline.

Seems like the perfect time to get younger.

New Jersey Devils

The Devils are right in the middle of a playoff race, but as the third oldest team, some sort of a youth movement could be beneficial for the next few months.

However, it doesn't seem like New Jersey is going that route.

The biggest name they have been linked to is Minnesota Wild defenseman Marek Zidlicky. The 35-year-old Czech may serve as a quick fix for a playoff run, but he doesn't quite help the future Devils.