I have to think that Kuchar was making a point of some sort (i.e., make rules that I don't agree with and I'll do something to draw attention to its flaws). If he was actually building a lie to create a pristine shot condition, then I agree, this is outside the spirit of the rule/game and he's being a bit of a dick. (Matt, this is why you guys can't have nice things.) Again, a shot clock would pretty much assure that this kind of thing doesn't happen.
Generally, I think this was a poor rule change for professionals. I don't think golf was meant to be played under pristine conditions. Sometimes nature throws a bad break at you. But there are limits to this, and you should be able to remove a stone, branch, or other impediment that shouldn't be present in a bunker. But pros rarely (if ever) run into these types of situations. (And besides, they get a free new wedge when they gouge their old one with a stone). This may be one of those rules that needs an amateur and pro version.
I would be more supportive of a rule that allowed pros to bump balls out of divots. I'm sure that rule would create problems, too, but these really are unnatural impediments, created by other players, which become more of a concern the later in the day you play. That's not really fair.