NBA Free Agency prospects are bound to be the next hot topic after the NBA playoffs and the NBA Draft and one name that many may have missed is LaMarcus Aldridge of the Portland Trailblazers.

Though Aldridge did say before that he wanted to wind up his career in Portland, rejecting the team's contract extension offer has somehow altered that belief. Though it is believed that the reason behind the spurning of the contract-extension was financially-related, it allows Aldridge to check the free agent market on his value should he jump ship.

Aldridge is most likely taking a cue from Carmelo Anthony or Lebron James as far as seeing what financial packages and promises other teams may have on the table. However, many believe that such may not prosper.

The Portland slotman is expected to stay put with the Trailblazers. With regards to the rejection of the contract extension and if Aldridge is indeed looking to get more money, the team is the most likely one that can give him.

Plus the fact that the Blazers have a potent lineup that is a force to reckon with. They have Damian Lillard and Wes Matthews to begin with, more than enough to catapult the Blazers into contention if all are healthy.

Why is that important? Well for one, if Aldridge includes the team contender status, Portland certainly has the tools to be one.

While Aldridge is not really a hot name we hear of today, probably since most teams believe there is a small probability of him leaving the Blazers, you never know what comes up.

Aldridge could change his mind or be swayed by some lucrative offer and promise. Nabbing an NBA title is certainly something on his mind and given the chance, Portland could do just that with the right tools.

Maybe a few more talented free agents to join the mix?

Whatever the case may be, Aldridge is almost sure of re-signing with his current team unless something crazy develops which for now, doesn't seem likely.