I'm not optimistic. Not at all. Unless they pick up from after Return of the Jedi, it's going to be major suckage. Major. Now, as mentioned, A thrawn trilogy would be nice.
Episode 7 was always supposed to be after ROTJ. The only question is, how MUCH after? Disney is apparently going to be working from Lucas' notes for 7-8-9, so we're likely looking at a generation or more after ROTJ - which is good if the intent is to bring in Carrie, Mark, and/or Harrison for cameos or starring roles. If they want to do the Heir to the Empire trilogy, they'll have to recast Han, Luke, and Leia.
Not holding my breath, but I'm quite willing to give them a chance.