grizz;
Yes, there are alternate scenarios for sure. If weather, especially if it includes airframe icing, (rare at that altitude, rarer at -40C, but not impossible as we know), was present, perhaps an immediate, momentary climb was the only (emergency) quick escape. Although unusual, even a very slightly-roughened leading edge would be far more sensitive to any AoA increase than a completely clean wing. Escape makes complete sense if such conditions obtained. The comments prior to the AP disconnect didn't indicate an immediate issue but we're going to learn more soon, I hope.