As for our top 2 pairs teams, I think we have what we have.
If MT/M were going to get to the next level, it would have happened by now. Attempted a new jump combo a few years back but abandoned that. Unsure if it's training or just max potential or both, but I see no reason to believe they can crack the top 6 at the Olympics. Three Russian teams, Chinese teams skating at home and the likelihood that S-K/F blow past them should seal their fate.
No unique elements, levels and GoE stuck in the 2/3 range and a steady diet of Adult Contemporary that just isn't special any more. I hope they have a great season but I think much of the world is sadly looking past them now.
W/M have made some improvements in last few years. Twist and BoDS are better. She's landing 3S more consistently. But they, too are lacking base value, levels and GoE. Lots of work ahead if they want to break into the top 10 and much past the low 60s/120 threshold. Their LP got my attention this year but didn't seem to go anywhere. The energy in the 3rd cut of music was a bit higher, but I think they need a 3rd cut with faster tempo or just something a little 'more' to prevent the program from landing flat.
The good news is, things are percolating beneath that top layer and behind the scenes. Let's not assume that the landscape tomorrow will reflect what we see today. Excited to see what we put out on the grand prix this fall - something tells me we might have a battle at next year's nationals that I hope will elevate all teams to push that much harder.