Kobe & Shaq: The Dangers Of What If's

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All music is from epidemic sounds
0:00-4:56 Intro
4:57-14:09 Prologue
14:10-22:50 Chapter 1
22:51-28:33 Chapter 2
28:34-38:12 Chapter 3
38:13-41:12 Conclusion

[@rustybuckets]

Click here bearmattress.com/Rustybuckets to get 35% for a limited time during their End of The Year Sale. If you miss this limited time offer, you can still get 30% off using my link! Offers subject to change.

[@ChrisJonesTCi]

Bro Rs I've been watching the channel for about 3 yrs now...I've missed those deep dives you was drooping(the pop and the loyalty dives are my favs) welcome back!!big Dawg dope vid fo'sho

[@EZ33377]

I get your looking at it practically but Kobe historically destroyed the spurs in the playoffs. I think a Lakers team w a still effective chance stood a wayyyy better chance than you gave them credit for against that team.

[@Tomtainius]

Putting that clip at the start, alongside 'The Dangers Of What If's' in the title, was such a great way of hooking viewers so early into the vid. Something tells me this video is gonna be a high performer!

[@franktuttor-ps3tc]

Stop glazing my boy

[@LetMeEatDem]

@@franktuttor-ps3tcstop hating my girl

[@legittaco5899]

​@@franktuttor-ps3tcGen Z kids won't even compliment their moms in fear of "glazing" 🥴

[@NathanJakobMichaelThomas]

@@legittaco5899 bro get that out of here. This isn’t a generational thing. This is a trendy thing. Like cringe is/was, it will go away soon. Quit being so judgmental.

[@Connor-wf2zn]

@@NathanJakobMichaelThomasbro is glazing glazing

[@redman6790]

Amazing content, genuinely love this transition by Rusty into long form less reactionary content because it will always be referred back to rather than being outdated after a week given the nature of the NBA. This is the reason I love the NBA, for timeless content like this so I can tap into eras I did not personally experience.

[@penlex28]

Great comment man!

[@fortynights1513]

Exactly. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: If all you do is talk about breaking news and react in the moment, then your channel might not stand out. His shorter videos weren’t bad in my book, but the deep dives definitely made his channel stand out for me.

[@hexmark21]

tying this to ever relevant topics is always good

[@moonshinei]

Love this. It points out a severe issue in all historical contexts, not just sports: revisionism. Some people really don’t think about how crucial certain events are to the future development of the world, and I think this video is a wonderful example of alternate history done well.

[@Renegade-kf8fp]

Same thing as music and movies/television

[@user-rr7bu9fe3k]

Facts I hope this video gets millions of views because of this.

[@sebastianpineda8601]

Loving to see Rusty entering his prime

[@penlex28]

And he’s only 19

[@sebastianpineda8601]

@@penlex28 I thought he was 17

[@penlex28]

@@sebastianpineda8601 oh yeah right!! It’s the beard that confuses me

[@dkthg]

@@penlex28 Lebron is better. Check the stats.

[@richborn6700]

Lmao he's not even 20 and was crying about weed addiction. This dude ain't primed for NOTHING

[@jmckie45]

Kobe's individual dominance and Ron Artest's clutch game winner in the 2010 Finals is one of my favorite stories in the current reality of post-Kobe and Shaq. Outside of basketball, living in my own head is one of my toughest struggles. Yet, as a 26 year old I have to strive for positive, and progressive change. Not just individually, but collectively as well.

[@ammonhurst3026]

What are you even talking about? The artest game winner wasn't even Shaq-Kobe Era, it was Kobe-lakers 2.0 I'm glad you're positive individually and collectively, but is that relevant to Shaq and Kobe?

[@jmckie45]

Ron Artest was one of the complimentary pieces to Kobe/Lakers 2.0. If Kobe and Shaq didn't break up, Kobe wouldn't have been the focal piece to build around. If the Lakers didn't try to build Lakers 2.0 with Gasol as the 2nd option, and Artest fitting in his role then the game winner wouldn't have happened. My original comment was my overall opinion of Kobe and Shaq without the need for a "what-if scenario". My 2nd paragraph was my own reasoning outside of basketball, to not fall into what it's, living in the past, etc.

[@damonroyal2821]

​@@jmckie45Kobe did not dominate the 2010 finals you guys are in love with Kobe making up shit he played decent but dominate is a stretch

[@PeazInAPodComic]

Rudy T. is also known for being the head coach of the Houston Rockets when they went back-to-back in 94 and 95. And he was a five-time all-star in his playing days.

[@fortynights1513]

I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again. I’d take him over Doc Rivers on the 75th anniversary team.

[@PeazInAPodComic]

@@fortynights1513 1000%

[@Romanus-]

Exactly. The disrespect is ridiculous

[@Benislionheart]

The Rusty glowup we all wanted and that you deserved. You didn’t just slug this one out of the park, it’s fizzing its way off out of the solar system

[@colton624]

Chapter 3 went a lot deeper than I expected

[@matthewthayer9316]

I think an important part of the hypothetical is what if Shaq had taken better care of his body and had taken steps to prolong his career. It was not just them staying together that Kobe was talking about, but what might have been if Shaq had had a better work ethic and had taken his career more seriously.

[@JimboCruntz]

I know it's a what if but I think Kobe was spot on when he said Shaq would've been the GOAT with Kobe's work ethic. He probably could've been it if he'd even just had a better work ethic.

[@pedroalexandrecorreiafigue2199]

The problem with that is that a Shaq that cares of his body and works to prolong his career isn't Shaq. It's a fundamentally different person. One of his most defining traits is him being a happy-go-lucky, live in the moment, unserious goofball. When you strip that part away, you get a fundamentally different man and player.

[@fortynights1513]

@@pedroalexandrecorreiafigue2199True, one thing still could probably be the same though: He still could’ve been a center with the same skills (maybe the work ethic makes him a better defender and free throw shooter), but other than that.

[@pedroalexandrecorreiafigue2199]

@@fortynights1513 Yeah, I think if you want a Shaq with work ethic, you get pretty much another Kareem. Different playstyle, but a similarish outcome in regards to accolades probably.

[@GarkKahn]

I wonder if he didn't started his carrer as... Well shaq! maybe he could develop a work ethic in order to become the player we know? It's like the story of the prodigy kid becoming an adult

[@OhHiYessica]

This perspective makes me appreciate Kobe even more than I already do. Mamba knew it was his time to have the keys to the team and he rightfully ascended into the greatest ever to wear the purple and gold 💜💛

[@RemoWilliams1227]

I agree, and out of all teams that's no small thing.

[@KodiFootball]

I love sports content that applies to real life. For me, that's what makes sports so meaningful. I'm currently going through a tough "what if" time in my life rn (you can probably guess what it is) and this video really gives me perspective. I have to move on and see what's next in my life instead of beating myself up about what we could have done. Easy to say, hard to do.

[@hiramsicles5580]

I think kobe kept shaq in shape, I feel like the drop-off would not have been as significant if kobe was keeping him in line

[@TheTyranex]

I mean that's why Shaq left. If you do this what if, it will have to be with the concensus that Shaq will be allowed to do what he wants

[@hiramsicles5580]

@@TheTyranex shaq said he left because he wanted more money, maybe they just move pieces to free up cap

[@lynnerose7891]

@@hiramsicles5580 Which pieces do you move though, that get you the NBA FINALS?

[@donzhang3444]

This video deserves way more views, this is more than sports commentary/analysis, this is pure art.

[@railenherman6482]

This was really eye-opening. I really appreciate the effort and production you put into this one, Rusty. It really made me think, and I didn’t expect to think this hard over a Kobe and Shaq video.

[@fortynights1513]

Great video Rusty! If you ask me, 2005 was the last year where you could argue Shaq was one of the best players in the league. I say the 05 team makes the conference finals and 06 wins it all. Your prediction is fair.

[@i_dont_know_who_i_am69]

As a normal nerd and basketball nerd, the connection you made about how sports fans often have their own headcanons is just great, I've never thought about it that way before. And what an excellent elaboration of that idea too on chapter 3 that definitely went deeper than anyone would've expected from a video essay about the lakers lmao

[@kylejohnson4615]

This went so hard Rusty, congrats on this shift, loving the deep dove video essay format!

[@midnightlumina7]

The Breakup needed to happen because both of them needed a lesson. They wouldn't be learning that lesson if they stayed together. It is sad that they did break up, but it was needed for Kobe to reach that new level of maturity and being a leader. Shaq also needed to learn that he really was relying too much on his talent instead of honing said talent, so he didn't win immediately, He won because Wade carried him.

[@kenw2225]

Seems like Shaq either fell off at a record level or he never used his top peak after say 01 finals and got lazy

[@mattp3930]

You went deep at the end of the video and I really appreciate that. Focusing on the now is an important lesson that everyone should learn

[@BrandonRadtke]

Great writing on both the basketball and life sections, and a really great job with the delivery and voice, I love that you will be doing these higher quality videos more now, thank you and good luck

[@TheRBCatcher32]

Love all the heads up timing on Also Rusty Buckets. Gets me ready to tune in for the hard work you and Rudy been putting in 💯

[@chrishammock6686]

Rusty I been watching your channel for a few years now and now that you started doing the long form videos I hit sub thank you for making basketball KZbin content better

[@Frequencyyz]

Loved this video and this type of content, specifically how you framed it historically, compared the hypothetical, and related it to the philosophical what ifs of life and the power of what is real. Super profound video rusty

[@briancordry8165]

unquestionably your best video, and i love the turn it took at the end. well thought-out and well written. great work

[@alfieday6896]

I really appreciate videos like this in an age of youtube shorts and 5min long videos, something I can sit down, relax, and really pay proper attention to for a meaningful period of time. Thanks for the effort Rusty and Rudy, another great video

[@hendude127]

I'm so glad you're happier now and doing what you love Rusty. Great video by the way!

[@flame838]

Damn that second half of the vid gave me an existential crisis

[@eotrizzle]

My most favorite vid of yours so far, the quality speaks for itself but for anyone to publicly hold themselves to a higher standard and execute in real time is admirable. Hats off to you Rudy, and mad respect for all the positive changes you've been implementing for real. Grown man shit right there

[@sheyarjames4904]

Your content has matured so well, linking those trends such as what ifs to societal and psychological phenomenas is a genius way of tackling the root and causes of these trends, keep up the good work.

[@OlSCrabs]

These last two videos have been amongst my very favorites to appear on this channel. I dropped a like because it only took one second, and it makes a MASSIVE difference in the KZbin algorithm.

[@martinhurtado8542]

Speaking life through sports. Connected like all things. Thanks for such an amazing video Rusty 🙏🏽

[@expr3sso132]

man, what an amazing video, keep it up Rusty, your content is making the world a better place

[@lukekiefer5964]

Loving the new content Rusty. I wish all the best for you in this turn of the page in your life brother!

[@jxnnydxvth]

really loving this return long form content, execution is perfect and they’re so well written👾so cool to see Jacob turn into the hbomberguy of NBA youtube

[@ImElectro]

Loving the new format and I’m happy to see you growing as a content creator. Keep doing you Rusty

[@xboxpenguin8705]

What a fantastic video Rusty, i CAN'T WAIT for the next one, please do more

[@WOWZAWOW-qy5zo]

Im loving your transition to these longer vid; this one was an absolute BANGER

[@ketchuphater445]

what a great video ! rusty being existential is probably my favorite i’ve seen in awhile ! hope this video blows up and more people watch cause it’s truly fascinating!

[@levoinkirshnikshowerhandle247]

Love the in depth videos keep this consistency it’s awesome

[@marcus_jb]

I was not prepared for existential dread today

[@chugcanthoop]

Loving the content improvements man, we can tell the effort you’re putting in and we appreciate it!

[@kennethxu1789]

In my opinion, you could say that being optimistic means getting pau. Pessimistic does not get pau. Then 2009 and 2010 could be wins, although the celtics would most likely win and it becomes much more arguable. In reality, if they decide to trade for pau, shaq is probably gone in the what if. And they would most likely decide to at that point, since they traded shaq in the first place.

[@fortynights1513]

They could’ve had Pao, but they also wouldn’t have had Bynum and Odom because the former was a lottery pick, and the latter was the guy they got in 04 from trading Shaq. If they traded Shaq after 08, they wouldn’t have gotten anyone as valuable in all likelihood.

[@derekp3820]

Very much appreciate you going back to the in depth stuff. You’re a smart dude that can think things through well and you’re better than just hot takes. Glad to see you’re doing that again.

[@giocalzada2023]

Let’s go!!!!!! Love the new content bro

[@ajaniscott5735]

One of the best vids you've ever made bro, keep cooking up these longer video essays🙏🏿💯

[@H3R0_]

Woah. I typically don't comment on videos but this video got me is way deeper than I expected but man is it amazing. Good job Rusty Buckets!

[@seanjjpaul]

This is a phenomenal video well done Rusty

[@FahmeedRokon]

I just broke up with my girlfriend of 7 years. Thank you! The whole “what if” vs “what is” is an eye opener. I’m hurting now :)

[@sautter09]

Wow that was a really good movie! Loved your takes and also how you made the video. Good way to get your points across. One can take away more than basketball from this video. Thank you so much!

[@arlopaden9794]

Another great video rusty. Keep up the great work!

[@woc_levievan2097]

Loving the new content!! Commenting for the algorithm keep it up rusty you’re the man

[@menrvatrainingsolutions6333]

I'm absolutely loving the new content! I think it's great that you guys are tying in sports to actual ideas and concepts. These videos are hands down my favorite on basketball KZbin. I have never really considered the dangers of escapism and the importance of grounding yourself in reality. I know you previously mentioned video ideas and I would be interested to see a video on a topic I recently made an assignment for in college - Diving deep into Mamba mentality, and more specifically the dangers associated with this and society's unhealthy idolization with a poor work-life balance. This is seen through popular figures like Kobe, Goggins, gym bros, etc.

[@menrvatrainingsolutions6333]

Building on to that I also tied the concept in with toxic masculinity and mental health within sports.

[@mbcudatree]

I originally found you through one of several of your videos you had ranting on Jim boylen as the bulls coach during that era. I got to say this whole video is such a breath of fresh air. You're really restoring the feeling back to the KZbin shit.

[@RedToyman]

This has to be my favorite Rusty version oat! Keep up the amazing content and hard work!

[@spencerbrtn]

loving the longer videos we appreciate the effort you’re putting in, hope you’re still doing well man

[@thespiralgoeson]

Thank you for making this video. The 2nd half of the video, I found incredibly insightful and profound. Very well said.

[@emersonbessler5686]

Long vids have been fantastic, huge fan, watch everything you post, keep it up!

[@Trevor_Schindler]

Again, really enjoying these long form videos Rusty! 👌

[@NB.Auto4012]

This is amazing! I love this long content format!

[@aandy2042]

Their interview together after they retired was amazing. It highlighted how competitive they both were. Your average human can't comprehend how competitive you must be to be elite among the worlds best.

[@user-cf5en1iv1y]

Top tier content. So hype for the way this turned out

[@tododia2024]

Absolute artwork, thank you for this Rusty!

[@knnkidss]

This one of your best video rusty love it man it was well put together

[@BIGPLAYMAY]

The beginning is what I wanted to watch but the end was what I needed to hear. This is not only one of the best basketball videos I have seen, it might be the best video essay I've watched period. I appreciate the amazing content

[@Shokolokobangoshi]

This is the first Rusty video I can remember that I coming back to finish. I am loving the new direction with these videos!

[@LectricVonThunder]

Dang, Rust! These long form videos have been heat!! Looking forward the next.

[@marshallhanlon1872]

Brilliant dissection of the fallacy of What ifs while not condemning them outright. Very nuanced. These video essays are maybe my favorite in all of sports KZbin and easily my favorite in the realm of basketball. Wishing your continued success

[@Griezus]

These videos are amazing Rusty!

[@nicolasherrera6855]

God I love this new video format! THANK YOU!

[@derikgalullo6301]

Amazing video Rusty! Love the new content, keep it up!

[@mpy3000]

grate upgrade for the channel, im def watching this

[@bucketbence7466]

nah rusty taking that leap this coming year, love to see it

[@anthonymenzer2462]

Digging the new long-form videos. Had a good laugh at comparing Shaq's stats at one point to JaVale McGee, given their history. Great work from both you and Rudy, looking forward to more in the future.

[@PipeBestX]

Great vid! Keep it going Rusty!

[@Rxdevictoriam]

This is amazing content! Great work on this bro!

[@Qdubz24]

Great video rusty love how you went into detail with video ❤

[@MEEZLEMONSTER]

Wow -- this video was waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay deeper (and more personally relevant) than I thought it would be... Subbed.

[@brangatang123]

another banger bless you rusty 🙌🙌🙌

[@DBMthe1]

fantastic video, especially the second half. keep going rusty

[@davidholcomb4658]

What an absolute banger sir 🫡 thanks for always bringing your a-game every. Single. Video. Truly an artist

[@danielwalker6909]

Loving these longer more in depth vids rusty keep that shit up love from the uk

[@lunalunaluna666]

good shit rusty goooood shit!!! im loving the long form content glad we're getting these long form video essay style vids from u again u have a lot of insight and generally interesting stuff to say also just cool vibes on these videos which is fun to see

[@slackerofhell]

This would be a really interesting series about a number of topics! Fantastic video, dude.

[@LUC4Z3]

Incredible Video! Goes beyond Basketball and made me think. Thank you!

[@philofthefutur3]

Love this and the content change. Keep this up!

[@xrxez-mp5016]

Excellent video. You're doing great Rust. I'm proud of you.

[@cookmikew]

loved the physchological analysis at the end, thanks professor rusty!

[@loganb7081]

very cool concept. glad this wasnt just another video talking about their beef

[@giladgur1703]

I don’t know why, but I really like your voice and your accent and the way you pronounce words. Also your intonation is soothing to listen to. You calm me down while talking about basketball so it’s an all around win

[@winstonmiu]

Very well done. I like the philosphical take on this. I hope you’re recovering well!

[@Puppies_Inbound]

Part 3 or this video is so powerful, it’s almost beautiful in its presentation and representation of the human condition. Thank you, I needed to hear it.

[@RomanC3098]

Love the new format!

[@robadams4375]

Love the new content rusty ❤❤

[@Lubetza]

Great video!! All the best to and your channels for 2024!

[@ZeeonXine]

Keep up the great content, Rusty, love these videos, man. Greetings from Brazil. As for my "What if" as a more recent fan of the NBA, and a Jokic/Denver Nuggets fan, definetly a minor one, specially since they won last year, but I vehemently believe that if Jamal Murray doesn't tear his ACL, they win the chip in 2021 against the Bucks. But it didn't happen, so life goes on.

[@joepdemollin]

What a ride this video was! Definetely an interesting talk

[@ShanksFreecss]

Love the video and what your doing with the channel

[@800mEric]

Thank you 🙏🏿 for this video

[@patrickgannon4057]

Loving your new work Rusty, I respect the grind. I would love to be in NBA Media like you one day.