I think the issue stems from just not having a big grind like the relic ready yet with the extended patch cycle duration. Bozja implemented some neat ideas of revitalizing old content too like running HW/STB raids/fates to work on relic steps outside of Bozja, which can be done at a fairly good pace with a party! (which I am hoping they keep in the new foray)

It really just boils down to the fact that players not interested in hardcore content or that have already done the old content they wanted to do don't really have much to do between patches since there's nothing to work towards yet.