Rashard Lewis
The Third Overall Pick Who Anchored the McGrady Era.
Rashard Lewis arrived as the third overall pick in 1998, one of the most significant selections in Magic history. This versatile forward with elite shooting for his size anchored the frontcourt during a transitional period after Penny Hardaway left and became a vital partner to Tracy McGrady. His time at the TD Waterhouse Centre defined an era of developing young talent. Lewis grew from a high school prospect into a proven All-Star before heading out via trade in 2004, carrying forward a reputation for scoring consistency and professional growth within the franchise.
- Draft Year
- 1998
- Draft Pick
- 3rd Overall
- Position
- Forward
- Seasons with Magic
- 6
- All-Star Appearances (Orlando)
- 1
- Status
- Retired
Lore & Background
Selected in a draft class that also included Elton Brand and Stromile Swift, Lewis was immediately expected to carry offensive responsibility. The Magic invested heavily in his development, pairing him with veteran Horace Grant initially before Tracy McGrady arrived in Orlando. This combination created one of the league's most potent young duos during the early 2000s. Lewis was known for his patience and shooting range, stretching defenses that often sagged off him due to his size. His ability to score from mid-range and beyond the arc made him a nightmare match-up for traditional big men. The fanbase grew accustomed to his smooth stroke and reliable presence in the clutch moments of close games. His departure marked the end of an era, as the Magic began shifting focus toward building around Dwight Howard later. However, Lewis remains remembered fondly by fans who witnessed his ascent from a raw teenager into a polished All-Star on the purple and gold jersey.
In Their Own Story
The TD Waterhouse Centre hummed with anticipation during a late-night game in January 2004. Rashard Lewis caught the inbound pass near the top of the key, wiping sweat from his brow. With seconds ticking down, he drove past a defender, rose up for a fadeaway jumper that seemed to hang in the arena lights forever. The net swished. He didn't celebrate wildly; he just nodded toward the bench, embodying the quiet confidence that defined his Magic career.
Reader's Guide
Rashard Lewis entered the franchise as a cornerstone prospect, selected third overall in the 1998 NBA Draft. His arrival signaled Orlando’s intent to rebuild around young talent following the departure of earlier stars. Standing tall with elite shooting range for his size, Lewis quickly became a reliable primary option alongside emerging superstar Tracy McGrady. During his six seasons in Orlando, Lewis evolved from a raw prospect into an All-Star caliber forward. He provided essential spacing and scoring depth that complemented the team’s aggressive style of play at the TD Waterhouse Centre. His tenure is remembered for high-scoring outputs and clutch performances during a competitive era in the Eastern Conference. Although his time in Orlando ended with a trade to Seattle, Lewis left an indelible mark on the franchise's history book. He remains one of the highest-drafted players in Magic history, representing a pivotal bridge between the Penny Hardaway years and the Tracy McGrady resurgence that defined the early 2000s.
Did You Know?
- Lewis was the first player drafted into Orlando directly from high school to become an All-Star with the team.
- He made his only NBA All-Star appearance while wearing the Magic uniform in 2004.
- His shooting range allowed him to be effective even before the modern three-point revolution.
- Lewis played alongside both Penny Hardaway and Tracy McGrady during his Orlando tenure.