Given that the crucial flow rates are up in the air a placement...

Given that the crucial flow rates are up in the air a placement at this time is a potentially controversial move.
The only way to not upset existing shareholders is to ensure transparency in this transaction & place at arms-length at a big premium to existing prices.
If priced at a discount &/or placed with "friendly" parties....only to be followed by a big sp gain as good flow rates are ann. to market would raise questions....