Pure spin: Pinkus is trying to make this story about merit and reward. But really its about not honoring contracts.

The stock options given to employees were part of their employment contract with the firm. They were based on imperfect knowledge of future facts on both parties, i.e. taking risks. Zynga attempted to use its power to revise the contract post-hoc.

If I have to negotiate a deal of any sort with Zynga in the future, I'll be wary of them honoring it.