It is very sad they put the antenna under all the covers. The partial success could have been discovered earlier, allowing some limited lessons.
I recall, at the time, the bouncing balloons were somewhat experimental and it was supposed that their failure had been the problem. Now it seems, they worked well. It was a remarkable idea which could be applied to future exploratory craft. It certainly eliminated the need for thruster fuel to aid landing.
It's impossible to say, but given that the parachute is still attached, I wonder if one of its lines could have snagged on the faulty panel.
In any case, it was well done.