Justice Kennedy's Retirement Decision

I want to raise one point in light of the new allegation against Judge Kavanaugh. Justice Kennedy has already retired. He could have chosen to make his retirement contingent on the confirmation of his successor, as other Justices have. Since he did not, the Court again faces the prospect of an extended period with only 8 Justices, depending on the outcome of the midterm elections. Whether that is good or bad depends on your point of view, I suppose.