I dont think “playing ball” is the right term per se. He wasn’t brought in for his take on Han Solo. He was brought in because he is a known quantity to Lucas Film. A friend of the family if you will. He was not brought in to re-imagine or re-tool or rebuild this movie. He was brought in because he is a sane and competent director. Not to say that he doesnt have imagination of his own. But he knows the functional ins and outs of directing producing and can be a steady and calming influence.
Like The Wolf from Pulp Fiction.
I think Lord and Miller are good directors. They are at the height of their popularity and they have a comedic tone that Lucasfilm trusted could be utilized in a toned down fashion. Lord/Miller wanted to stay true to themselves and take the film in a wild new direction. I cant say I blame them. It’s part of their success formula. Kennedy/Kasdan wanted to stay true to Han Solo and didnt want the level of “zaniness” they were getting.
Agree with everything above. Just wish they saw these differences earlier in production.