There really is no way to draw a direct correlation between this taxing NBA campaign — a shortened offseason, condensed schedule and COVID protocols that further limited preparation throughout — and the rash of injuries to star players that has impacted these playoffs. It is also no coincidence that the favorites to reach the NBA Finals from each conference have been two of the three healthiest teams all year.
Ask around the league, and you will get valid arguments on both sides.
LeBron James informed us all in an extended Twitter diatribe, "They all didn't wanna listen to me about the start of the season.