Over several days I've read much conflicting information and I really need to make a decision about my pump.

I have a 33' round above ground, 52" deep - I think it's around 27K gallons. Upon start-up, my pump is leaking badly and needs replacing. It appears to be a generic model and I can't even make out the HP. I have a Hayward Star-Clear 175 sf cartridge filter and intend to continue using it. Some sites say that I have to have a side discharge pump with the cartridge filter which I never had before. I'm planning on going with a Hayward Power-Flo Matrix 1.5 HP unless someone tells me otherwise.

Could I use a 1HP?

Thanks for any help.