Seems like I read that when you're relacing a used hub that has gouges from the previous spokes, you should line up the new spokes so they fit into the old gouges.

Unfortunately I only know one way to lace wheels--I go to Sheldon and follow him very carefully step by step:
Wheelbuilding

What if following Sheldon step by step results in not using the old gouges? I can see where it would be cosmetically undesirable, but might actually prolong the life of the hub, no?

If it is definitely better to stick with the old gouges, is there a quick tip how to orient the hub/rim so as to follow Sheldon's steps?

I know I could figure this out for myself if I had leisure time, but this stuff always comes along when I have work backed up and they need it yesterday and my brain is befuddled and I can't even hardly think straight!

Thanks for your help.