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Rashard Lewis’ monster contract – and, in turn, his skills – received a lot of scrutiny from Orlando Magic fans this year before the team traded him to the Washington Wizards in December.

But what would you think about Lewis playing for the Magic without the $118 million dollar contract attached to his name?

If the league institutes an amnesty clause in the new collective bargaining agreement, there’s a chance the Wizards would use it to waive Lewis and the remaining $30 million on his contract (he’s paid $21.1 million in 2011-12 and could be bought out for approximately $10 million before the 2012-13 season). Of course, the Wizards could use the clause to undo the mistake of Andray Blatche’s contract (5 years, $35.7 million agreed to before this season), but it’s unclear if the Wizards view that deal as a mistake yet.

So, if Lewis gets bought out, he’ll hit the open market and be free to sign with any NBA team. His family still lives in Orlando and he shares close friendships with many Magic players, so there’d almost certainly be interest on his end. Stan Van Gundy showed legitimate emotion when Lewis was traded and praised Lewis’ selfless attitude and work ethic, so the Magic’s coach would likely support Lewis’ return.

But it would all come down to what Dwight Howard and the Magic’s highest decision makers wanted.

There’s no question Lewis’ ability has declined since the Magic signed him in the summer of 2007. All of his shooting percentages were down this season when compared to his first year with the Magic, in addition to his points and rebounds per game. He clearly lacks the driving ability he possessed ear

But Lewis isn’t that old. He’s 31, which is younger than Hedo Turkoglu and a year older than Jason Richardson. He still has some skills and some athleticism left, especially if he’s not expected to be a star.

Obviously, the amnesty clause isn’t a sure thing and neither is Washington using it on Lewis. But if it all falls into place, could he help the Magic? Or would the Magic be better off giving young power forwards Brandon Bass and Ryan Anderson room to grow and develop with regular minutes?