While I get your point on ASU not being preferred because of attitude, I think money covers over such stuff. Especially over time, leadership changes much more than conference membership.
However, it sounds like Colorado and U of A are ready to move - ASU is not right now. Clipping off teams is what is needed, and if ASU is not ready to go, so be it. Their loss, not ours.
Adding teams is like taking out an insurance policy - the goal is to protect more than to drastically increase the money. This is different than other moves the conferences have made.