@Meddler, Context on the Blitzcrank Changes?

Hi. Blitzcrank main here. I'm not going to complain about the nerfs or anything; I understand why he needed to be changed. However, there are a couple of changes that I don't understand:

1. Why does Rocket Grab now grab enemies 75 units in front of him rather than directly on top of him? Was this meant as a nerf or a buff?

2. Why is Power Fist's duration getting halved and the ability to cancel it getting removed? Are these changes meant as a nerf or a buff?

On a final note, I would like to thank you for making the change to his ult passive that prevents it from attacking monsters while Blitz is out of combat. That is an extremely important change for warding Drake and Baron pits, among other things.

I hope a Rioter answers this. Answers from regular players who have any idea about the reasons for the above changes are welcome as well.

Thank you. :)