If getting what you need faster is important you could always add spells that let you scry instead. For example, having
augury owl,
calculated dismissal,
dissolve,
foresee, and even
lost in a labyrinth are all good ways to still interact with your opponent and gain card advantage even while in combat. As for the creatures you brought up I'd recommend the
stormchaser mage instead. He costs less, can fly, has a good body, and will grow in strength AS you play your low drops spells that make you scry. What are your thoughts so far?