It could just be part of the slow process of dragging his feet at every step to delay. Whether he wants to synchronize the trifecta, thinks the market will improve next year, or doesn't have a merger candidate yet, it is clear that he is intentionally delaying the process. The request for alternative service could have been filed a month earlier than it was, and publications could have started a month ago, so service by publication could have been easily completed by now.
However, it could be something else. They might be delaying due to WNFT somehow, I'm not sure. For example, performing service by publication for GVSI/SRNW highlights how differently these share cancellations have been handled compared to WNFT, so they may want to delay until after briefing is complete.
I'm just worried the judge won't grant another extension, so they should start the process soon.