It can get cocked sideways even with the spring from what I’ve read.
My preference is simply the blocker rod for a few reasons but mainly it’s one less part inside to fail or malfunction. I’m typically dealing with high performance units for drag racing the street units I’ve built, no one has complained about too firm of a shift 1-2 or too harsh of engagement when going from neutral to 1. I also know the chance of an issue with the accumulator piston is very low with the blocker rod. So I just stick with what I know has worked for me.