NHL Trade Rumors: Finding Fact, Debunking Fiction Among the Latest Buzz

It's that time of year again, folks. Between now and the NHL Trading Deadline on Feb. 27, the rumors will be be swirling every which way.

With all of the buzz surrounding the potential transactions, it can be tough, or nearly impossible, to separate fact from fiction. But what's the harm in trying, right?

Let's take a look at some of the latest buzz, and examine the likelihood of each rumor coming to fruition.

Shea Weber on the Outs?

Fiction

It's tough to call the Shea Weber rumblings rumors, because there are no solid reports to substantiate it.

Weber is set to become a restricted free agent, along with his defensive partner, Ryan Suter, who will be an unrestricted free agent.

The consensus is that after signing Pekka Rinne to a huge deal, Nashville is not going to be willing to spend the money to pay both of their big-time defensemen, leaving the door open to a trade for one of the two.

It's all speculation, and as long as the Preds are in contention, they would be foolish to let either of their top two players go.

Boston Beefing Up?

Fact

The Boston Bruins are cruising right now, so it may seem ill-advised for them to shake things up.

However, Peter Chiarelli managed to add depth a year ago without sacrificing much in the way of chemistry.

He would like to do the same at the deadline this year, according to the Ottawa Sun.

Carolina Selling?

Fact

The Carolina Hurricanes are approaching rock bottom.

There are plenty of unrestricted free agents on the roster that will be available for trade during the next month, according to the Ottawa Sun.

Wholesale changes need to take place in the Carolina organization.

Big Changes in Columbus?

Fact

After an offseason of such high expectations for the Columbus Blue Jackets, the product they are putting on the ice is not acceptable.

It's tough to say just how much of a shakeup is on the way, but Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun seems to think major changes are forthcoming. 

Major Shakeup in Buffalo?

Fiction

Despite a sluggish start to the 2011-2012 season, the Buffalo Sabres do not have plans to drastically shakeup their roster, according to the Buffalo News.

Instead, the Sabres need to continue to work at what they do have, and that is a roster that is well paid but vastly underperforming. 

Everyone for Sale in Anaheim?

Fiction

While the Anaheim Ducks GM Bob Murray has stated that he will entertain offers for any player on the roster, according to the Fourth Period, it appears unlikely that the team will get rid of either Bobby Ryan or Ryan Getzlaf.

Two of the cornerstones of this franchise have come up in trade rumors, but neither is interested in leaving Orange County, at this point.

Unless they get an offer too good to pass up, Getzlaf and Ryan (and Perry, for that matter), will all be Ducks for the foreseeable future.

Jarome Iginla Trade Rumors?

Up in the Air

Jarome Iginla is going to be the most compelling storyline to follow as the trade deadline approaches.

While it makes all the sense in the world for Calgary to trade the aging superstar, letting go of a franchise player is easier said than done.

Let's hope the Flames let Iggy go, so he can get one more shot at the Stanley Cup.

Teemu Selanne on the Move?

Fiction

Teemu Selanne isn't going anywhere. He is nearing the end of his career, and he most likely wants to finish that illustrious career as a member of the Anaheim Ducks.

The rumors of a reunion in Winnipeg are nice, but the Jets aren't all that likely to be buyers at the deadline.

Zach Parise's Time in NJ Running Out?

Fiction

Zach Parie isn't the type of player you just sell at the deadline for spare parts. He is the type of player you build a franchise around.

The American-born forward is in the last season of his contract, but the Devils are playing well this season, and all reports point to an extension being worked out between the club and Parise.

Blackhawks Trying to Add Depth?

Fact

The Chicago Blackhawks appear primed for another championship run.

Of course, the spare pieces still need to be put in place, and a center and third pairing defenseman are on Chicago's wish list, according to ESPN.com.

No deal is imminent, but expect the Blackhawks to add some depth players before the deadline.