the value of owning a franchise definitely comes into play when the franchise is sold. yes, the kings have lost about 30 mil since the Maloofs bought the team, but look at it like owning a house. If your mortgage payment is 2k a month, that's a 24k loss per year, plus other various repairs and whatnot. but there are certain tax breaks (interest write offs, etc), and when you do sell your home (depending on the market) you generally see the equity gain outweigh in many cases the amount you paid in mortgage payments.
the kings franchise has skyrocketed in value since the Maloofs took over, and they don't necessarily need to sell the team to capitalize. remember, the kings allow the maloofs to build some of their other enterprises. do you not think that The Palms has benefited from the Kings? Not just in the advertising on Kings broadcasts that push the casino/hotel, but the connections to other players/celebrities that make the Palms the place to be in Vegas....
recently, the Maloofs had a band that is signed to their label (Maloof/Interscope) play at a Kings viewing party. the exposure is priceless.
Not for nothing, but the Maloofs have been fairly savvy at maximizing the potential of their franchise, both on and off the court...especially when you consider they are in a smaller market. The benefits far outweigh the losses.
and remember this- these guys have been involved in the NBA since their father owned the Rockets. they have all the money in the world, and are serious businessmen. but let's be honest: these guys are highly competitive, and are not afraid of glamour and spotlight. They know the type of exposure an NBA title would bring....plus they just flat out WANT IT. They may watch the bottom line, but don't think for a second that their hearts aren't in it as well....they truly are Kings fans, just like us. Except...um...they own the team. But I think you get the drift....