It's worth remembering Boeing did the exact same thing with the 777-200LR in the aftermath of 9/11. Development work was put on hold while cash and resources were tight. When things started to return to normal, work on the 777-200LR resumed and it was certified and delivered, it also became the basis for the 777F.
Boeing always saw the -200LR as a niche aircraft and new it wouldn't sell in the number that the 777-300ER did. Hence when things got tight, it got back burnered until things loosened up again.
I'd bet pretty good money that the 777-8 will make it into production - just not per the previous schedule.