This is what irks me. Almost everyone who is leading the charge for Chris to take it, is from the midwest. It's pretty clear that there is a huge bias towards this kid amongst Mid-Westerners, and zero objectivity. We get it...skiing in the mid-west blows, and you guys make do with no vert and dangerous parks. Yeah, the kid slays and he's freakishly talented. He is undoubtedly "trick for trick" one of the top 3 or 4 entrants.
Unfortunately, skiing, and especially "video" skiing, has at least as much to do with aesthetics, and the bottom line is that Laker hucks. I don't think he should win because he spins an extra 180 on or off of a park feature...pencilly at that. I thought there was a movement to steer clear of the spin to win mentality, and to favor style and creativity over tech... I think Laker's skiing is a lot like Gus Kenworthy's from a year or two ago. By that, I mean the tricks are there, but the style was just not quite there. If you watch Gus today, he's a different animal, and I think Laker will undergo a similar maturing.
People seem to be shocked to learn that he is so young...I don't get that at all. When I watch him ski, the FIRST thing I think to myself is man, "That little kid is going to be ridiculous when he grows into his body". There are at least 5 or so entries by guys who are infinitely more photogenic...and no, I don't mean any number of the Tom Wallisch clones. I just don't see the logic of taking someone based on their age.
In closing, yes Laker slays, but please stop riding for him just because he's from a po-dunk mountain. Chris will get his shine, but honestly, I don't think what he would bring to a spring park shoot, an urban trip, etc. is above or beyond what Level 1 already has, OR the best quality entrants.