Top 50: Rashard Lewis, no. 38

by Chris O’Leary Next Year. Often the unofficial mantra of losers, Next Year finds its way onto the lips of athletes and fans alike across the planet. It becomes the band-aid to what ails your team. Out-rebounded on a nightly basis? Can’t play D? Have locker room issues with teammates? Run out of gas and come up short in the Eastern Conference Finals? Next Year can fix all of that. Embrace it, let it be your savior. Rashard Lewis’ pairing with the word is different. This summer, Next Year threw itself at the Orlando Magic swingman like an overeager high school girl at a frat party. After Dwight Howard, Shard will be the second-most important piece of the puzzle this season for Orlando. Dwight will continue to do his thing, looking like the Incredible Hulk under the basket. Jameer Nelson will play his part, setting the table for everyone. As revitalized as Vince Carter may be this coming season, you can’t help but think that he’s salivating at the pr...