So finally beat the wheel hub, got it off both steering knuckles from the hell of a neighbor. Only to realize there’s potential damage to the driver side is does a dent/impact of this size affect the strength of the knuckle?
Yup, your steering knuckle is battered. I'm not sure what would have caused that. First thought was a moron with a "pickle fork" for separating the ball joint stud, but typically that scars the top of the stud area, not below on the side. Maybe the guy didn't aim the pickle fork blades appropriately, and nailed the steering knuckle before he got them wedged between the knuckle and the control arm.
If everything else on that knuckle checks-out, I'd consider smoothing the sharp edges with a rotary file and die grinder, and using that part.
OTOH, you could probably get a replacement from the Treasure Yard fairly easily.