Python is a programming language that is almost becoming the norm in 3d apps, so I dont think its a way of getting rid of MEL and then maya. Also the Neuclus dynamics is new for maya 8.5 which Autodesk say is "Autodesk Neucleus" not maya specific, so if you were sinical you could say they are testing it on maya before bringing it out in Max, or on the toherhand that autodesk are pushing maya more than Max as it has this upgrade and Max has'nt.

Think Maya's got a bit of life yet.