What I meant by that post is that too many people focus on their tech skill, even when they have the basics down and can execute all their options.
In my case, I could nair shine shields, dash dance well, upthrow up air, and do just about everything else you need. The thing was, I got so caught up in trying to play as fast as I could that I never bothered to learn the basics. (Plus, playing fox so darn much made me think this was the only way to go--he's so good, you don't need to worry as much about options or getting caught in a bad position as much. Noobs can use their tech skill as a crutch.)
What's more important than dumb tech skill? Spacing, reading your opponent, move choice, and match momentum, etc.
"Mindgames" works too, although it's a gross oversimplification.
From your post, it seems like you didn't have the technical floor down to begin with. And of course, if you're focused on options and opportunities (and not just playing faster than your friends), then yes, better execution = more options.
How this relates to training noobs:
Obviously, everyone needs to learn how to l-cancel and move their character eventually.
My take on tech skill is that (ideally, on the highest level) it's only as good as what you apply it to. I figure that by focusing on core mechanics first, you won't overwhelm the person you're trying to teach, and won't make them crazed on (superfluous) tech skill.
First, noobs should try to grasp edgeguarding, tech chasing, and not spamming roll. THEN they can worry about doing as many aerials as fast as they can.
It's the checkers vs. chess analogy--you can get really good at checkers if you play fox, but the way to start off playing the game should be chess, IMO.