Yep, Lorenzo was fortunate that his engine failed in practice and yes one could say that he (VR) missed out on a likely podium but the FACTS are that he did not podium and thus, like all who claim that it was likely the reality is that one never will know.
Personally I find it interesting that people suppose that VR would have or likely would have gotten a podium if his motor did not cactus itself, but no such leeway is afforded others, least of all that JL would likely have podiumed at Assen were it dry. You see, Assen was not dry and thus JL had a shocker so to suppose he would likely have podiumed is as correct as ti is to say that VR would likely have podiumed at Mugello. Both are assumptions, neither is factual or reality.
Again however you say that the pace is fine but it is not borne out in the results of the season to date which I shall remind have him 40 or so points backwards of one of those guys that is seemingly as competitive. Sure early days with races galore to come, and no doubt VR himself would say that he has been competitive but that his championship standing does not show it, and he like you and many others will believe it, but come years end the points count and what ifs mean squat
