What advantage does Plushenko have over the youngsters now? In the past, he can wip out a Quad, then posed for the rest of the program and watch others fall or make mistakes. Nowadays, men can easily wip out 3 Quads in a single performance, more than he could ever do and still have energy for other things. His Transitions have been analyzed to death, everyone and their dogs know he can't do them. Without the big jump advantage, yeah, he will not be a contender.
What advantage does he need? He just wants to participate in his homeland Olympics and finish his career, which by the way was amazing. Unlike the youngsters which have to fight for their first Olympic title, he can afford anything, to win the Olympics, came in second, third, last place, etc.
You'd better analyze the advantages Chan has over the contenders and advise him to find a technical coach, otherwise Canada will miss that gold medal again