I think that is normal and common.
Often, my paphs will make fans with only one or two leaves and spike.
At least for my plants, I rarely see subsequent growths bear as many leaves as the very first growth. I think it has to do with building up themsevels.
They have to grow leaves up to certain point as a seedling, then once they reach maturity, they can make more fans with less leaves but still manage with all the growths and leaves help the entire plant to function well.
Just my idea, but probably not too off.