While 6th & 7th are definitely attainable, I hope that they do not succumb to the pressure of needing to secure 3 spots for the US. So long as they skate cleanly, they're looking strong enough this season to make a meaningful splash!
It's more than likely that the top 4 spots will be contested among the new Russian stars and Rika.
Looking through the current SB list, Young You claims 5th (among those likely to be sent to Worlds), with Bradie and Mariah claiming 6th and 7th respectively. Young has higher scoring potential, but relies heavily on landing the 3A to garner judge boosting. For now, I wouldn't count her as a safe bet just yet. Eunsoo/Yelim have not been as consistent this season, so I will rule them out for now. Elizabet is a big question mark, but I wouldn't be surprised to see her make a splash again with a few months of preparation. Satoko is being crushed under the weight of her own underrotations. If absolutely clean, PCS can possibly her above Mariah but Bradie's technical advantage should keep her ahead. Kaori is the main spoiler, with her late season peaking and judge favoring. Again, I think Bradie has a shot at challenging a full-powered Kaori, but Mariah's technical side may be just a smudge lacking.
Regardless, this season is still exciting for the American ladies as they are finally climbing back up to the top. I think it is far too premature to pronounce that Alysa will be taking a spot in 2022 - she has yet to even skate at a major junior competition, and 3 years of growth or new stars could happen. I would hold off on that until at least after this season! However, it would be imperative that the American ladies claim back 3 spots for the Olympics, so 2021 Worlds will be a tough watch.
They are still following each other in IG and Vincent post about Gracie like 2 weeks ago. I kind of think weird when Gracie posted her sectional medal with her coaches and no Vincent. He also posted Lara medalling but not Gracie
