I think your legal status is of top priority among many other things. Publication is something you are working on and looking for, but not essential as your status. You are asking a question like my health is more importanat or my work. Your health must be in good condition, then you can work. The same is true, you have to have a good status to win time for a better work and future.
If you are concenred that you may be asked for RFE, you may need your a recommendation from your current boss as well as future boss, yet, recommendation from your current boos is dispensable. You are not bound to this guy under NIW. Wish this may help you sort out.