Yes, I also think it will be a big help for Andy to be in the top 8 seeds at least.
Murray's winter training preparation will be key. It seems this year he has opted for exhibitions in Abu Dhabi (Mubadala WTC)and Perth (Hopman Cup) instead of Tour events Brisbane or Doha..
What remains to be seen is if he can raise his level back to top 5, much less consistent top 10, after his back surgery last year.
We just don't know. Many never get back to their best after back surgery. Let's hope that's not the case with Andy.
He must improve that second serve. It has been woeful. When his 1st service pct. goes away, good players are killing it, much less the top players. Don't know if the back is hindering him there or not. But I think he might be better off mostly using his 1st serve delivery and cutting the speed a bit for safety.
Some people are expecting Cilic, Wawrinka, and Raonic to do well, but who knows? Tsonga has been on a general downslide, despite his Toronto win, maybe he can be a factor again. But other young players like Goffin, Kyrgios, Thiem, etc. might start to rise as well. I think and hope it will be an interesting 2015.
Hmm, the time countdown app isn't working (Empty rectangle on top of image). Have to see what's wrong with it.
Respectfully,
masterclass