Abrams is perfect for the new Star Wars movie. Disney is going to want something with tons of space battles, high drama, and lightsaber fights - space opera - because that's what sells big both here and internationally. Particularly on the "international" markets, where all manner of cultural subtleties tend to get lost in translation (not to mention that raising political issues potentially means trouble with the Chinese film censorship board).
And you know what? Star Wars and Star Trek movies are at their best when they stop being so goddamned serious and just embrace the drama and cheese of full-blown space opera. It's why I enjoy Star Trek 2009, even though the plot is full of contrivances and plot holes. It's why the best and most entertaining Star Trek movie is Wrath of Khan, which is the closest that Star Trek gets to Space Opera Incarnate. I think Abrams can do that kind of film.