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.