In a way it is also proving how much the sequel trilogy went off the rails. Very similar plot threads of a "map" to find a lost Jedi (and Thrawn), but a more interesting plot of two parties trying to get there first.... and being another galaxy that they are going to opens up possibilities of not just Thrawn and the Imperial threat but perhaps other stories and threats that aren't a rehash of the Empire, like bringing in the Yuuzhan Vong into continuity or something.