Michael, as you noted, it's difficult to see just how all this will play out, and whether this marks a shift in Nikon strategy. One rather interesting development is that Thom Hogan, a well known Nikon industry watcher, and a fairly sober commentator on all things Nikon, has suggested there might not be a D3X, but rather a 24 MP D900. Basically something like a D700, except with the Sony 24 MP sensor, designed to shake up the photography landscape. It certainly isn't what most people are expecting, and if it came from anyone other than Thom I would poo poo the idea. But still, it's an interesting thought.
P.S. I don't think Thom is suggesting there won't be a full blown 24 MP full sized pro body, just that when Nikon does drop the 24 MP shoe, it'll first show up in something like a D900, with the big pro body to follow later, maybe as a next gen D4. All fun speculation, of course.
P.P.S. Thom's actual words: "I'm going to go a different direction: no D3x. Yes, a 24mp FX body, but it'll be the D900. This allows them to use the Sony sensor and bring it downscale to compete with the A900/5DII." Thom Hogan, speculating on Nikon's upcoming high MP offering.