Could you imagine the Reality posts if the Lakers were gifted a series because the opposing teams players were suspended?
Do a search.
I've already posted on that when the Lakers were gifted not only a series but a season.
After Houston owned them in 1986 sparing the Flakeshow a sweep by the GOAT '86 Celts.
Sternfish and the Krishna Marketing machine made sure both Houston guards were taken out for '87.
That, along with Lenny Bias overdose and collusion between the then corrupt Spurs owner mid season gifting Michaell Thompson and you got one of if not the weakest titles ever.
If you want I'll find your quotes that the Celts would have won 87 or 88 guaranteed with Lenny Bias.