Yes, but not in the way you think I do. I think if JB/NK merge there will be very little growth for years. BECAUSE of that, F9 will be able to expand more, and has airplane orders to do that. Because of that they will have less problems hiring than the JB/NK combo. Growth attracts people a lot more than stagnation. Yes JB rates are higher than F9, but upgrading in base and holding a line 5 years earlier makes up for it. Obviously results from the past don't guarantee the same in the future, but for a lot of the guys that I see leaving NK it is because they were expecting to hold a line in base as a captain in 3 years, just like I did. Obviously it will stop at some point, nothing can double every 3 years forever. But people right now are leaving because of lack of growth with no retirements to make up for it.
I am absolutely sure neither F9 or NK can grow like they were planning if both are around. If only one is around they can do that for longer, and attract people because of it. Just my opinion, and worth what you paid for it.