I don't disagree with you regarding Dave, if there is more he can say about the situation, even if it is his opinion, he should just be out with it. There is nothing more annoying than cryptic remarks from a reporter. If he knows more, he should say it, or not bother alluding to it at all. I hate the whole "I know a lot more about this...but I can't or won't tell you" shtick.
Speaking as another media person, sometimes you can't divulge the full story in order to protect your sources or honor your relationship with a source. If a source tells me some piece of news on the condition that I keep it between us, then unless I want to burn that bridge, I honor that request.