Jason,
I'm not so sure it would make 18 play easier, but, it might make # 1 play easier as you could take the water in the DZ out of play.
Coming in to # 18, into that wind, from that far left, over the gaping bunker, is a very demanding shot, and, should you go right with your approach, well, big numbers might be in your future.
I wouldn't want to have to make a 4 on # 18 in a medal play qualifier.
It's a difficult hole on the drive, approach, recovery and putts.
But, fun to play, especially at match play.