Precisely correct. Stating in a public manner "I would like to see Matt Drudge as my Whitehouse Spokesman" to a reporter would be an indirect offer of the position.
That's why you never see candidates speculating in a public venue about things like that.
If a candidate were to have a private conversation with a member of his staff about who he would like to approach after the election, that would be perfectly fine. But they must be very careful about what they say in public.
However, musing is not the same as staing. it is not a statement of fact, indirectly or directly.
It is simply one wondering out loud, musing, if you will, as to the fanciful events that may or may not develop, or the taste of honey, or what the Sun would feel like on the face after it comes out from behind the cloud, or if Rush or Matt would make a better mouthpiece.
See, it is a play on and of words, but words is what defines the law. One can play below the radar as long as one is not declaring directly, or indirectly, extending or offering a position.
Just musing.
If Mr. Trump were to sit back and say, after stroking his chin, I wonder how Mr. Drudge would perform as a mouthpiece in the briefing room, that is a muse. It is not an offer.
I realize you are making a statement regards the law. I am stating that musing is not against the law, well, until the thought police prove intent upon devining one's muse.
That could get ugly real quick.