I was definitely one of those who thought it was a bad (or at least weird) omen that he didn't sign right away.
My complete speculation is this: it was just a feeling out period. Both parties were open to the other, but wanted to see it up close. Maybe it was more on Colangelo's side, i.e. is this an organization I want to commit to for the next five years? Maybe it was more on Verbeek's side, i.e. is this a player who's worthy of a contract slot and an NHL try out? Maybe it was both.
I could be totally wrong on that. But it makes sense that Colangelo would get a try out in San Diego so the organization could get a closer look at him and he could get a closer look at how the organization would treat him. If that's the case, the fact that he signed is great news, since it means both were happy.