Daisuke Not Competing in China

We'll have to wait until later in the season to get our first look at Japanese Champ Daisuke Takahashi. If you haven't already heard the news, he's withdrawn from Cup of China citing a knee injury he sustained last Friday. He was the heavy favorite to win the event. That banner is now passed to Tomas Verner of the Czech Republic, although both Americans in the field could be a factor.

Takahashi is planning on having some tests to see when he'll be able to compete again. His next scheduled event is the NHK Trophy November 27th. That event features the much anticipated match up between he and Nobunari Oda.

This withdrawal really helps Evan Lysaceks chances at making the Grand Prix Final, as Takahashi is only competing in one event, he cannot outscore Lysacek. Also, the combined force of Oda and Takahashi (should he compete at NHK) could drastically affect who makes the final pending on their placements at NHK...will be interesting to watch.