The Level 3 and Century link is expected to close this fall, it has had  its share of objections, so it may be why it has taken so long.  Still, even after it closes, I would not expect the order spigot to open immediately, these companies need to merge because they have been operationally weak, so they are looking to consolidate expenses to save on costs.  I would ecpect the merged company to resume orders in Q1 2018.  All that said, the combined company should be in great shape and return to growth. I too would still expect the merged company to continue being a 10% or more company once it starts ordering again.

barrons.com/ar...772992