Stern was positive about the Maloofs' efforts to get this done. Whether that was a public-facing show or sincere remains to be seen. It's become rather clear that the city has made a completely fair proposal, and that the Maloofs wouldn't be asked to pony up any more than just about any other team in the league. The question is now whether Stern will bail the Maloofs out or whether he'll force them to take the deal, contribute their $70-90 million and, if they can't afford it, sell the team.

This is all about the Maloofs' wallets right now. Pony up, or GTFO.