Retail 10 years ago? Ha, the P89, Mogilny, Darby, Weight, Vanek, etc. curve has been out there for almost 25 years!
As a devout P89 user I would have to say its more of a 'tweaked' PM9 or a stepped on/flattened P92 than a tweaked P88. The P89 is a slight middle of the blade wedge but gives you just enough curve to enhance shooting and still be able to stick handle and use your backhand. I'd also say that the P89 plays closer to 5/5.5 lie than the 6 Lie that the P88 has. The P88 curve also starts deeper in the blade or closer to the heel if that makes sense. For me the P89 gives me more real estate on the blade where I feel comfortable stickhandling or releasing shots from. I've tried the P88 and personally I just don't feel comfortable with that mid curve to get shots off quickly or with the same accuracy I have with the P89. The other big difference for me is the flatness of the overall blade and especially at the toe that the P88 has versus how the toe is more shaved down and the blade profile rockered on the P89. That shaved/rockered toe on the P89 fits my shooting style/release whereas with the P88 I can't get the same leverage or kick when shooting off the toe.
A lot of this is being a creature of habit, the 'P89' has been my go-to curve for the better part of 20-something years (yes, I'm old). I've tried everything and anything in between from Retail offerings to Pro-stocks and I still end up back with the P89. If you have any questions or want more info please don't hesitate to hit me up!