Does a promise start make a difference if there is no playing time preference?

The promise start makes a big difference, even with no preference of playing time for the recruit.

Without the preference of playing time, it doesn't matter which recruiting cycle the start is offered. As long as it's before he makes a decision.

The preferences are all multipliers for positive or negative effect on the effort you put on the recruit. If the recruit has a Wants to Play preference, promised minutes (not a promised start) will change that preference from neutral to Good or Very Good... which will impact all future effort.

For every recruit, regardless of a Wants to Play preference or not, a promise start is worth about 5 HVs. Promising 25 mins is worth about 4 HVs. Those are the estimates I use.

It’s a great boost to your efforts without spending any of your budget.