Noob,
Your post really brightened up my day!!!
If you insist on playing a Les Paul just be sure to use Super Slinkys 10's. i.e., because of the less string "tension" on that scale guitar.
No. Your 9's on YOUR guitar (24.75" scale Les Paul) have less tension than the 9's on MY guitar (25.5 scale Axis).
So, because of that comparision you can put 10's on and STILL have less tension than 9's on another 25.5" scale guitar. Hence, "looser" strings on a Les Paul.
That's the comparison of how string tension is different on all guitars. So, in that respect, generally speaking you can now go for some larger gauge strings without feeling that they will be too stiff.
Also, you'll notice that the fret spacing is slightly different as well. I don't have the exact spec's on that.
Please other forumites feel free to chime in if you'd like.