While I agree with everything you said, but Cappellinni / Lanotte hasn't been skating almost at all all season after a bad debut. So i would not say that they are sure bets for a top 10, because they have not proved anything all season, while they ended the last one on a major down note.
Or have you seen some great new material they have prepared for this event i missed somehow?
I agree. At this point, I am not sure if C/L could beat the respective #3 team of US & Canada: C/Z and W/P. As I remember, C/L lost to the Shibs both at Nebelhorn & the NHK trophy. It means they are not likely to make it to the top 10.
Personally, though, I would like to see them perform well. They are a beautiful team, and I'd like to see another strong European team. Vibrant competition and rivalry is good for the sport. :thumbsup: