Might such a project be a completely unique venture unto its own, or an extension upon the existing Steem blockchain?
No. I doubt that.
Might the "Steem 2.0" idea be an upgrade to the existing Steem blockchain with the features and benefits EOS enables?
That's more likely. Especially with egos involved....
Personally, I'd think it'd be preferable to upgrade the existing Steem platform - both leveraging the network that's been grown so far over the last couple years, and ensuring that the Steemit community is honored for their service and commitment through their inclusion in "Steem 2.0," whatever it may be.
Yes, I agree. But he might have burned too many bridges there...
were it possible to upgrade with EOS integrations such that the few hundred thousand Steemians who've been working hard to build up their Steem holdings could easily transition to "Steem 2.0" while ensuring their Steem retained its value and could be utilized in the next iteration,
I could see that happening. Basically pulling over the userbase to his site. But then, it's a big risk. He's better off joining forces. But I guarantee you if there IS another operating system for steem, he's doing something that will get him his baby back. This is his baby, and he left it. I just could never get over that. I always felt like he'd come back. If there is a steem 2.0, and it's not just a saying, then I betcha he'll try to steal the userbase. But it would be smarter for him to collaborate. People would be in an upheaval.
The first thing he should do is manage the purchased bot votes and manage the trending page so promotionals go to the promo section. And self-votes count as promo votes. This is @nonameslefttouse's idea, and I second it.