The thing is, the story associated with Yablins is way more interesting than De Palma knew Speilberg’s buddy.
Hollywood in the 1970s experienced a number of massive changes. The studio system was collapsing under its the weight of its monopolies and new breed of movie makers rose.
It is in that environment that Lucas, Spielberg, De Palma and Milius grew up and made the movies they did.
Check out this documentary to get insight:
“Easy Riders, Raging Bulls: How the Sex, Drugs and Rock 'N' Roll Generation Saved Hollywood”