Hi:
Well, the tires are essentially paddle wheels when you're in the water, and yes, they are slow an inefficient, but they do move the AATV. Personally, i think that the paddles would help, although inneficiently like the tires. But they should sit no closer to the hub than the tire tread. I feel the issue would be damage, and the quick-release setup you have in mind may be the answer.
Why not make a pair and try them on your machines high end, if it helps, set up another pair.