A better idea would be an ability to "provoke" a target.
The basic concept why puppetmasters don't have such an ability is that SE claimed that you'll use your automaton or just stay back and let other people in your party do the trick.

I for myself like the idea that you don't have to rely on your automaton, subjob or other party members to support your party (or soloplay). Maybe SE decides that it is time to get us something (animationwise) like frypan? *g*