Why change? This "pilot shortage" is another scapegoat for management failings, just like the unexpected winter snowstorm in Seattle and coronavirus pandemic. Drag it on as long as possible and save money and blame it on external factors.

Sorry we couldn't grow and expand like we wanted to because of a pilot shortage, which would improve pilot careers and job security - you don't need scope if we can grow.
Sorry we can't give you the whole soda can because of viruses, but we can give you this water bottle. Here, eat this same sandwich as a crew meal every day, because it is not made in the same facility that makes all the other airline food.

EDIT: I don't mean when the pandemic was real and happening.. I am referring to cutting amenities and services to save money, similar to certain hotels no longer offering breakfast. It's not just Alaska doing it.