There's plenty of evidence of increased case pressure where the rings have aligned if you care to perform a Differential Pressure Test. Have a listen to the breather outlet and watch the sludge and moisture coming out. Granted I have only ever plumbed in a Manometer while testing engines after overhaul but there's nothing to stop you having a go anytime, even if that's not in the books for normal maintenance.
Now, will you agree that an increase in case pressure will have an effect on the amount of oil that goes down the Inlet Valve guides, particularly if they are worn? (Continentals don't have the luxury of having Valve stem seals as they do in automotive applications)
Guppy:-
"A wives tale still believed by some, but proven by none...and which melts in the face of common sense. Most certainly a crankcase can be pressurized by blowby, but not by gap alignment in the rings. Staggering the ring gaps is superstition."
Superstition or old wives tale, the Manual says the Rings should be staggered 90deg apart and that's the Spec I shall abide by.