Yeah, the idea of Draco as a little punk with his own agenda makes a good deal more sense to me than the idea of Draco completely overawed and fearful of Lucius. It makes him more potentially formidable as an enemy of Harry, as well -- but ironically it also makes it a little more plausible that he might switch sides if he thinks there's something in it for him. Not that I really expect that to happen, mind you, but...