Gracie showed up with a pretty face and a bucket full of talent right when the US needed a new ladies star. She was handed the due bill for years of disappointing results by American ladies. That was so unfair, and I can't imagine the crushing pressure she must have felt.
Gracie would benefit from reduced expectations. At least now she won't be asked every thirty seconds if she's going to end "the drought" at World's. Now if some of the younger skaters would make a little noise and redirect the attention of the press, the fans, etc., Gracie might be able to relax and just skate.