This is actually an idea I don't think I've heard been brought up as yet. I do like Kotone being a new addition to the remakes, and even if Kris had stayed, I wouldn't have mind as she was the first "Johto" girl implemented into the games. Though, like you mentioned, if they had brought back Kris for these remakes, and saved Kotone for the next generation, then I believe it would have pleased many fans and left an opening opportunity for the next generation (although, we wouldn't have known about it as yet). xDThough I wish they would have kept Kris for this game, and maybe used Kotone for the next generation? :)
The hat. Oh God, that thing has to go. It's so ugly and takes up so much space. Might as well have a second head.