Overview
- The Las Vegas victory was Denny Hamlin’s 60th Cup win, tying Kevin Harvick for 10th on the all-time list.
- A late four-tire call from crew chief Chris Gayle and heavy simulator work were credited for the short-run speed that enabled passes on Kyle Larson and Chase Briscoe.
- With two Round of 8 races remaining, Joey Logano (-24) and Ryan Blaney (-31) are below the cutline, heightening pressure to deliver at Talladega and Martinsville.
- Dale Earnhardt Jr. and other commentators now position Hamlin as the title favorite, especially if no Team Penske driver reaches Phoenix.
- Hamlin dedicated the win to his ailing father and described the closing laps as a blur that reinforced his confidence heading into the finale.