Also you cannot rule Bell out either. She scored higher in France to win the bronze than Satoko did to win the silver in Cup of China. Next week will be very interesting. At least the US ladies seem to be improving their consistency. And congrats to Amber Glenn who seems to be building confidence in her own ability.
In France, Mariah wasn't facing any top home skaters with major international cred. That is certainly not the case in Russia. The gold medal there is earmarked for Trusova. Medvedeva
has to skate her best on home turf, and she demonstrated last year at Nationals that she could deliver at home under pressure after a rough early start. At Rostelecom, Evgenia's already huge PCS will soar due to home ice inflation.
Then there is Miyahara, who is a superb performer. Technically, Satoko has some challenges, but then Mariah does, too. And when it comes to performance, you have
Schindlers List vs.
Hallelujah. IMO, Satoko has the better vehicle.
To challenge for the GPF, Mariah absolutely must win silver, and meltdowns from both Medvedeva and Miyahara seem unlikely. Two bronzes would be nice, but that would put Mariah behind Bradie.