When I tried to apply a DSU to a reservation in May, I was told by Diamond Line person that there was no inventory available for DSU use.
When I followed up with HyattConcierge on Twitter, this is the response I received.
We have a new system which was preventing us from using the current awards past the expiration date. I have adjusted this reservation and new email confirmation has been sent to you.
So I am inclined to believe that this is NOT a rumor, and next year's DSUs will not be usable beyond February 2017.