I think it’s unlikely he’ll leave Kori outright, but I’m sure he’s doing some soul searching right now. To be honest, the rest of his skating is really beautiful, so I’m not sure he needs a total coaching change so much as someone to really help him with the jumps. Frank did seem to be helping him with that, and he also really helped refine the quality of his movement. Both of those things seemed to slip this year.
If he does decide to include Frank in his coaching team, I don’t see why it needs to be for months at a time, as long as it’s regular. In 2016, there was a noticeable difference in the quality of jumps - and his confidence - despite the fact that his stints with Frank were relatively brief. Even with his first alternate assignments, he could spend some time working with Frank in February or March, as he did last year before Worlds. And there’s no reason why he couldn’t also work with him in the summer after SOI, as he did in 2016, and go back for a touch up in the fall, especially if he keeps his programs.
I never know how much credence to give to TSL’s information. But according to their latest recap, the unnamed insiders Jonathan spoke to at Nationals think the problem is with his technique and timing, rather than a lack of jumping talent. It sounded like Jason’s “natural” timing (not sure if just for 4T or also 3A) might not be optimal; they also mentioned his entry edge into the 3A as problematic, and that Frank had changed his arms on the 4T.
I don’t know enough to agree or disagree with anything TSL said, but if true, I can see why he’s continued to struggle with these jumps. Going forward, without the additional pressure of trying to make Olympic team, and without the additional media and promotional commitments he probably had this year, perhaps it will be easier for him to focus on making changes.
