kreynolds -
I know what you are going after, devils advocate.
Such players IMHO - need to be playing first level characters against things that are CR 1/2 to CR 2 until they DO get the "hang of" the combat system.
Ask what they want to play - suggest multiple possibilites - and let them make the decisions. There is a world of difference between
"I want a skilled swordsman"
"I want a guy who can do heaps of damage in melee"
and "I want a character who will do the maximum average damage on every swing."
The first is easy enough - your most likely class is a fighter, but what sword? Are you considering using two swords at once? - maybe you need to be playing a Ranger.
The second requires explaining how critical hits, power attacking, and two handed weapons work... then letting the player pick. Both the Greatsword and the 1d12 x3 critical axe are possible weapons... and the player should also have the Barbarian's Rage ability explained to him.
It's the third request - that smacks of munchkinism.