Source: Maloof Big Obstacle to New Arena
Not long after (David) Stern spoke, a surreal scene unfolded as the Maloof brothers — from oldest brother Joe to the younger Gavin and George — were followed into a gift shop and eventually relented for a short chat with media. But while Joe and Gavin took it all in stride, smiling for the cameras and promising to talk later, a glum-looking George floated by himself on the outside of the chaos.
As the two sides attempt to resolve the portion of the $387 million pie that would be paid for by the Maloofs, a source close to the negotiations said it is abundantly clear that George remains an obstacle to a possible deal. After Johnson told reporters that both he and the Maloofs agreed that the “city has done its part” in this equation, George told SI.com that he didn’t agree.
“I’m not convinced yet,” George said when told of Johnson’s comment. “I’m not 100 percent convinced. I think they’re trying. We just got their deal today.
“It’s a lot of different things [being discussed], a lot of different areas. You know, we just got it Sunday, so we’re still trying to figure it out.”
The Maloof family has taken serious financial hits in recent years, having sold their beer distributorship in New Mexico and lost controlling interest in their Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas. George, who is based in Vegas and led the effort to move to Anaheim, has long been interested in moving the team to a bigger market. Joe and Gavin, meanwhile, are based in Sacramento and have re-engaged with the community since last year.
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