I have to agree that the analog stick for the sword would be awkward, But i think all control options should be available, and used to their fullest extend. How the gamepad could do this WITHOUT using the stick for control of the sword i dont know, may a more elaborate version of how you are moving with the left stick, like forward jab, back for either and up slice, right and left fore you vertical slices, but then we would be missing the diagonal strikes. so im stump on that. But i think it would be cool to use the pro controller and the gamepad in tandem, where as the gamepad just functions as your inventory on the fly, maps, ect. we will just have to see how this pans out!
However JJ you went all out with that OP. I mean you really got your sources and visual proof down, i commend your thoroughness!