The conversation with my LBS guy went like this:

DB: I need a new rear derailleur, what do you recommend?
LBS: 9 speed?
DB: yes
LBS: all weather or sunny day...use the bike for group rides?
DB: all weather, yes use for group rides.
LBS: Forget XTR, won't last a winter...Deore will frustrate you on unloaded group rides, I'd go LX or XT...Essentially the same except for weight and cost...Go with LX. If just commuting I'd go Deore.
DB: ok.

LX stuff works great with cleaning once bi-weekly. I know you meant hubs, but I'd guess the conversation would have been similar...(except that I have 130 mm dropouts, not 135).