I agree with your take on why AURC is doing a PR of the buyout, I can't see this as being a billion dollar offer, though. If it were, I would see a combination of cash/stock, but not just cash. Since it is a cash only deal, that's why I believe it will be considerably less.
But if the offeror is a major producer, then we might have something more in your range, & I would expect mgmt. to accept that offer.