I agree with this. I also believe removing the AH doesn't solve the problems with D3. It's D3's item/stat/skill systems that lead to the issues with the AH. Everyone was desiring the same items (using their class's 1 OP build).

In lieu of no Auction House the game will definitely need named-games or some sort of trading post where people bid on items with their own items. I hope they understand that Diablo was always about trading too, not BoA like WoW. We will see I guess! Good luck Blizz :)