sawdin, not a legal eagle here; but the judge does not 'have' to get this case wrapped up today. Just as with last month's court date; the judge could be told there are more details to work out, and then set another date. A ruling does not have to be made today; one could be made today if both parties report a settlement has been agreed to.
The judge can't make a ruling on the merits of the case today; it hasn't gone to trial yet. They are discussing setttlement at this stage.
If the case was 'bad' (as you asked) the case would not still be progressing in the court system after 15+ months.