Lewis might be one of the most underrated fantasy contributors in the game. At 6-10, Lewis has the ability to hit threes with great proficiency, can put the ball on the floor and penetrate, has the athleticism to finish and has also developed an efficient back-to-the-basket game. In fact, Lewis' post up game might be his best weapon. Against smaller forwards and guards, Lewis is able to use his height to take them down low near the basket. Against larger defenders, Lewis is able to use his length and his superior face away jumper.
In addition, now that he's a member of the Orlando Magic, a team that desperately needed scoring last season, his fantasy value should improve immensely. Dwight Howard is a terrific talent, but he has very little offensive ability in his game. Despite having most of the offense going through him last season, Howard barely averaged double digits in shot attempts. Most of his points came from put backs, open dunks and free throws. Having Lewis on the roster should also open things up for Howard, who had more turnovers last season than any center in the last 22 years!
Don't let Rashard Lewis slip too far off your radar.
Lewis has always been a
Lewis has always been a fantastic fantasy contributor. He's perpetually underrated because he doesn't grab the spotlight with his play.
With Howard, I envision Lewis feeling more free to use his post moves. He's not a bruiser, so he never got comfortable with playing the post in Seattle. But with a guy like Howard there to rough up the opposing bigs, Lewis' post game looks a lot more secure.
Hopefully his Lewis' shooting skills will allow Howard to focus his own game on the offensive end. If Dwight doesn't have to worry quite so much about grabbing the many rebounds created by his teammates, he might develop a hook or something!