NBA Rumors: 3 playoff teams emerge as threats to lure Thompson away from Warriors

Now that the Golden State Warriors' season is over, their attention will soon turn to the roster ahead of a pivotal summer. By far their biggest question mark is four-time All-Star Klay Thompson, who is set to become a free agent for the first time in his 13-year NBA career.

After the Warriors and Thompson failed to come to terms on a new contract extension last summer, his future with the team has been the topic of speculation ever since. While Thompson struggled for most of the year, he played better after being moved to the bench.

Unfortunately, he went scoreless in what could be his final game in a Warriors uniform against their rivals, the Sacramento Kings. That play-in tournament loss could prove to be the loss that breaks up their big three of Steph Curry, Draymond Green, and Thompson, with Thompson potentially being pursued by several playoff teams.

Will Klay Thompson leave the Golden State Warriors this summer?

Thus far, there have been three teams that have been linked to Thompson ahead of his free agency: the Philadelphia 76ers, Orlando Magic, and Dallas Mavericks. Both the Sixers and Magic have the cap space to sign him away from the Warriors outright. On the other hand, the Mavericks would have to work out a sign-and-trade that could net Golden State an asset or two for one of their best players.

However, if the Warriors haven't come to an agreement on a new contract, it suggests that they have a limit for how much they are willing to pay him. Moreover, they probably wouldn't want to take salary back given their cap constraints. Losing Thompson for nothing might not seem like it would be a huge loss for the Warriors, though it would give them more flexibility going forward.

Letting Thompson walk, replacing him interally with the likes of Brandin Podziemski and possibly moving Andrew Wiggins could allow them to retool around Steph Curry. As for Thompson, of the three aforementioned teams, the Sixers would probably be the best fit. Though the Magic may be willing to overpay for him since they have made major strides and could use more shooting and veteran help.

All in all, it is entirely possible that Thompson has played his last game with Golden State. If that is the case, then the Sixers, Magic, or Mavs could be his next team.