caadman,
I had a similar feeling when I read that his season wouldn't be structured to defend his Giro title. The injury will just reinforce that decision. Does a Grand Tour winner owe it to the event to defend the title?
But then, do I think he would have a chance in hell of winning it again? No. Everything went right for him and the real contenders got kicked out or crashed repeatedly. Kudos to Paolo for taking advantage, but I don't think it could happen again.
I do think he should get the chance to try though.