Pacers' Tyrese Haliburton trolls NBA world with ex-Lakers star LeBron James free agency stunt

The NBA world is still waiting for a decision from LeBron James, as his free agency process appears to be nearing its conclusion within the next week or so. James has kept a low profile throughout the offseason, allowing his agent, Rich Paul, to handle the majority of the process.

Over the last day or two, the Indiana Pacers have emerged as a team being mentioned as a potential landing spot for James. While it may seem unlikely, Indiana could realistically have a path to completing a deal.

“At first glance, the idea seems far-fetch. Indiana has not been connected to LeBron by his agent, Rich Paul, ESPN's Shams Charania, or any of the league's major insiders,” SI’s Alex Golden wrote. “However, if LeBron is truly willing to sign for the veteran's minimum -- a possibility that has been discussed by Charania and other reporters should he prioritize joining a championship contender -- the Pacers do have a pathway to making the finances work.”

With the Pacers suddenly becoming part of the conversation, Indiana star Tyrese Haliburton decided to troll the internet.

“Tomorrow it’s time King James,” Haliburton posted.

Many fans believed the post was some type of hint that James joining Indiana was a legitimate possibility. However, it was simply Haliburton’s way of promoting his upcoming appearance on the Mind the Game Podcast on Thursday.

“LeBron James’ first scheduled appearance at Fanatics Fest on Thursday in New York is a Mind the Game pod recording in front of a live audience alongside Indiana’s Tyrese Haliburton — sitting in for Steve Nash — at 1:15 PM ET,” The Stein Line’s Marc Stein wrote.

It is safe to say that Haliburton knew the post would generate attention, especially with James’ free agency decision nearing its conclusion. The NBA world reacted accordingly, but the post was ultimately just promotion for the podcast.

It remains unknown whether the Pacers have a legitimate chance of landing James. The Haliburton and James podcast appearance should be entertaining, but it could also provide Haliburton with an opportunity to make a recruiting pitch. Regardless, Haliburton successfully pulled off a troll that caught the attention of NBA fans around the world.

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