Lysacek, who switched long programs from “Grease” to “Carmen” this year, didn’t bring much fire to his routine until the end. His elements weren’t especially sharp, although he did space out his jumps well.

But the judges liked it a lot, boosting him to second overall.

“I’m so honored and the Olympics has been a lifelong dream of mine,” he said. “I know I have tons of work ahead of me.’

Savoie had, by far, his best skate at nationals in five years, a fluid routine marked by seven solid triple jumps and intriguing, old-school footwork that could be traced back to the days of compulsory figures. At times, it was mesmerizing.

But he fell on a triple lutz, and that probably cost him second place.

“Obviously I made a mistake and there were some unorganized parts of my program,” Savoie said. “But it’s the best performance I’ve had all season. And better than some of my practices.

“I guess it was waiting for me.”

A third Olympic spot was not awaiting Weiss, the final skater of the day. His program was filled with errors, and he shook his head in acknowledgment of his falling short even before everyone else knew.

JOHNNY WEIR (Figure skating) AP Country: United States Hometown: Newark, Del. Age: 21 Best Olympic finish: N/A MORE ON JOHNNY WEIR

“What can you say?” Weiss said. “Fresh off the ice, so I’m still in shock a little bit, certainly disappointed.”

Goebel won the 2002 Olympic bronze and was expected to be a dominant American. Instead, injuries, coaching changes and some downright ugly performances plagued Goebel. He skated pretty well at the 2005 nationals, but was 10th at last year’s world championships, beginning another slump that ran through this event.

The Quad King even struggled with the four-revolution jump that has been his province alone among Americans. And he popped both triple-axel attempts, totally offsetting his improved presentation.

When he left the ice on the verge of tears, he didn’t even acknowledge the crowd, a sad ending for the 2001 national champ.

“I don’t know. I don’t know what’s wrong with me,” he said. “I wasted four years of my life. I don’t know what I’m going to do now.”

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