Maloof’s Kindly Throw Backhand Compliments At Fans/City

First off, if you haven’t heard, the Kings? They’re staying in Sacramento for another season. Not because the Maloof’s want to (though, they’ll be the first to say that’s their main reason) but because big daddy NBA told them to.

The Maloof’s, not to be outdone by the NBA’s press release, released their own this morning which you can find below:

"“Out of respect to Kings fans and the regional business community, we have decided to remain in Sacramento for the 2011-12 season. The fans’ spirit and energy, specifically our season ticket holders, has been remarkable and we are truly thankful for their loyalty. We also are greatly appreciative of the support from our corporate sponsors as well as other local businesses that have come forward in recent weeks.Additionally, we would like to take this opportunity to send a heartfelt thank you to the loyal and hardworking team members within our organization. From the game night staff to the front office, coaches, and players, we are grateful for their professionalism and devotion.During this process, Mayor Johnson has strongly indicated to both the community and the NBA that he is capable of getting the support to build a state-of-the-art entertainment and sports facility that the Sacramento Region and the tremendous Kings fans so rightly deserve. We look forward to seeing Mayor Johnson bring his vision to reality. However, if an arena plan cannot be finalized in a timely fashion, the NBA¹s relocation committee has assured Maloof Sports and Entertainment that it will support an application to move the franchise to another market starting in 2012-13.”"

First off – out of respect? Seriously? Could you sugarcoat that horseshit any more? But more importantly, I liked this part even more:

"However, if an arena plan cannot be finalized in a timely fashion, the NBA¹s relocation committee has assured Maloof Sports and Entertainment that it will support an application to move the franchise to another market starting in 2012-13"

Now, let me get this straight…

The supposed lucrative Fox Sports West television deal wont be available until the 2012-2013 season anyway as the Lakers are still under contract for the upcoming season. The NBA also remains in a potential lockout situation, so, the Maloof’s not moving this season and going against the NBA’s wishes is a no-brainer.

Judging by their above comments, to me it’s clear they’re going to do the minimum possible. Sure, they’ll play nice – or nice as they can. But they’ve moved on from Sacramento. Their eyes are on a bigger prize. Maybe it’s because they don’t feel Sacramento can get an arena done in their financial time frame and maybe they’re right. Maybe it’s because they’ve come to the realization that they’ve burnt bridges beyond repair. Whatever the case, glad as I am that the Kings will remain in Sacramento for the 2011-2012 season, it’s very clear to me that the Maloof’s have zero intention of keeping them here beyond that.

Can that change? Sure. Joe and Gavin are extremely emotional guys. Maybe the arena plan moves quicker than expected and they actually get off of their high horses and get behind the community like old times.

But judging by their actions throughout this process – the snark, secretive, backhanded ways, I doubt it. Their ego’s wont allow it. They’re already making threats at the fans who’ve so loyally supported them. You’ve been assured you can leave next year by the NBA, huh? Is that so? No apology? No nothing? Just a “Oh, yeah, by the way…we’re still leaving if big brother will let us and you can’t stop us this time…ne-ner ne-ner”.

I hope with all of my heart that the Kings will be in Sacramento long term, I really do. And I pray that I’m wrong, but under the Maloof ownership, I lack the faith.

Fool me once – shame on me. Fool me twice – shame on you.

Now, onto the draft…..

Thankfully.