Zasa came to Michael’s party seeking Michael’s permission to whack Vincent. Michael summoned Vincent, and in Zasa’s presence humiliated him, praised Zasa for giving him a job, concluded by telling Zasa “I have no conflicts, no debts” with him--and ordered Vincent to “make your peace with Mr. Joe Zasa.” Seemed like a one-way ticket to the graveyard for Vincent. Vincent’s attack on Zasa’s ear seemed to have saved him in Michael’s estimation.

Do you think Michael intended to throw Vincent to the wolves—and would have if he hadn’t bitten Zasa’s ear? Or, was Michael putting Vincent to some kind of test—and if so, why? Any other thoughts?