I’m baffled by your comment that Lindsay and Ava would normally have struggled to make the US team in better times. When exactly were those better times — the era of Kwan and Cohen? Maybe Gold and Wagner? Seems like times have been tough for a lot of years now.Sadly there is no need for gushing for anyone at NHK or period. Yes, Kaori is good. But no one is bring the amazing program or amazing tricks in fact there are more issues with edges and under rotations than every. I am happy for Ziegler - nice skating as well as Lindsey but the state of skating is that two skaters who normally would struggle to make the US team are 1-2 at a Grand Prix. Not to be mean o r denigrate these skaters who are doing their best but this isn't the best time for excellent skating. Wonderful opportunity though and bravo Ava and Lindsey and Nina took it. Forget the 3A and quads; there are fewer 3-3 it seems here.
I personally am thrilled that the US suddenly has four women who are competitive internationally and I don’t think any of them are second rate.