I agree, the laser hand guards are a horrible idea. Correct me if I'm wrong but aren't hand guards designed so that when two blades cross, the enemy can't just slide theirs down your blade and cut your hand? As far as I see, Lightsabers don't have that problem as sliding doesn't really occur.
The lightsaber is a weapon of finesse. It's extremely light weight allows you to swing it around very quickly and very close to your body. Adding lasers sticking out the side gives you less options on how you swing it. And I get the impression that they're going to throw the "I swing it like a broadsword" which is really stupid for a light saber.
But I shall reserve full judgement for until I see it in action.