[TONY!]

If you have rod knock, the crank will be scored and need to be cut.
I can't see how the connecting rod would still be reusable.

I dissected an engine that had a spun bearing in the rod, and it was such a mess in there. It needed a new rod and a new crank.

As far as what is best for you. I really can’t tell you!
There are way too many factors: time, money, experience requirements for the build, etcetc.

Rebuilds are great if you can source good parts and go from there.

Buying a JDM motor is a quick way of doing it.
But you would be getting an old motor, but a quicker solution.

Depends on how long you want to keep the car also.
Sometimes putting used parts in a used car is the way to go.
I once sold a used part to a guy and said that the part will probably outlast his car.

Well, different people have different philosophies, but I think I gave some ideas on both.