Larry David
Starter
I don't know why these behind the scene players would allowed Crandell to report on the existence of such a deal but yet forbid him from providing any details. The only real reason I can think of is that they don't want the Anaheim group to come up with a counter offer thats much better. But they should know that the Maloofs will go back and forth to get the best deal anyways so Samueli will be able to up his ante regardless.
Ding! Good points.
If its so hush hush that no facts can be talked about, why go to the press? Also, if you can't get anybody on record ... or report any facts, why spread a rumor? If you run the show, why let him do it.
Jimmy has about 10% of a story, he doesn't want the Kings to leave because it destroys his job, and he's both trying to build hope in town and not be the person that kills the deal. He's being an reckless reporter and overly protective at the same time.