They will do what's right for the team, long term. I think Mara is as sincere as he can be. That doesn't mean they can get both signed. A lot depends on Nicks and Cruz and what they want and will accept.
True and usualy when thats the case ( back loading ) the guaranteed money goes up.
sometimes patience pays off. If Nicks were to decide he would rather negotiate after a better, more productive season it would be easier to focus on Cruz, Beatty, and Bennett.
Never argue with an idiot. They will drag you down to their level and beat you with experience!