Slim and MacArthur as Pacific commanders

Would William Slim have been a better commander than Douglas MacArthur in the Pacific?

Yes; Slim's closer attention to units and operational detail could have improved outcomes, while MacArthur could retain a senior public role.

The proposed arrangement links MacArthur's command with Slim's and places Slim over the combined troops. MacArthur receives credit for policy statements and high-level presentation, but too much operational detail is said to have been delegated to staff. Slim, by contrast, would have examined the condition and strengths of the formations themselves. That closer command grip could have produced better outcomes for soldiers in MacArthur's campaigns.