They did not buy the property. SSG just engaged in a contract with them to publish it. Once I heard about that last December I bought a year sub to LOTRO. I had an old account there so that inspired me to play it again. The funny part is that when I heard the news they were making a new TLP server (Agnaar) I slowed down my LOTR play and did more EQ play. I don't play on Agnaar so much right now. I've been playing on Brekt because I like the rule-set and it is quiet, but I like Phinny, Ragefire, and Lockjaw as well.
If it happens, would be interesting. I got a lvl 105 Warden with like 10k Turbine points (or whatever they are called these days) and a full set of Anorien crafter alts on Crickhollow. Probably should check out Mordor and get to 115, but having too much fun with EQ right now.
