They did.
Some interesting thoughts-
1. If we accept that rules influence play, and also that no one reads the DMG, does the inclusion of boons in the PHB and the exposure to players mean that we are likely to see more high level (epic) play?
2. If so, what is that going to look like? IME, there isn't a lot of challenge in 5e as you start to get on up in levels.
3. OTOH, with the increased use of VTTs and DDB, this could automate some of the finicky stuff and enable more epic play, but they would need to create the challenges for it.
The solution? Stat the deities. Search your feelings, you know this to be true.
#