Kernel update via backports in Debian 9?

Question

linux

Good day!
The bottom line is, you need to upgrade the BAKED debian 9.4 kernel to a version higher than the standard 4.9 kernel, found instructions for updating the kernel through backports, in this instruction it is strongly recommended that you also update libraries and dependencies for compatibility with the new kernel using the apt-get -t command stretch-backports upgrade, thus upgrading 31 more packages.
This question really torments me, since updating so many packages to the BPO version will harm the stability of the system and then it is already easier to use Ubuntu Server than updating so many packages.
Is it possible to upgrade only the kernel without apt-get -t stretch-backports upgrade and what is the danger if it is possible?

Answer 1

you can only update the kernel without updating the libraries.
due to backward compatibility requirements in the kernel, old interfaces are usually not removed and old libraries will be able to communicate with it normally.
But in reality, failures are possible.
first, to test the operation of such a chimeric system, at least in a virtual machine, and only then put it into a combat vehicle.

Answer 2

updating so many packages to the BPO version will harm the stability of the system

It won't do any harm. Both at home and on VPSs everywhere, the software is updated to versions from backports.