Tyler Reddick had a disappointing conclusion in the Las Vegas Cup race, finishing in second place behind Larson.
Kyle Larson, Denny Hamlin, and Tyler Reddick (Via IMAGO)
After a slow start to the season, Larson returned to Victory Lane and made his championship aspirations clear in Las Vegas. He led the No. 5 team of Hendrick Motorsports in a dominant performance that saw him win all stages and lead over 70% of the scheduled laps.
He had the fastest car of the day and, except for a late surge by Tyler Reddick in the No. 45 Camry, no one came close. Reddick posed a challenge to Larson’s supremacy, and if it weren’t for the skillful defense of the HMS driver, he wouldn’t have clinched the victory. The difference between the leaders at the finish line was only 0.4 seconds.
Michael Jordan, co-owner of Reddick’s 23XI team and JGR veteran, emphasized Larson’s complete domination on Sunday. He also highlighted the comparable performance of the No. 5 and No. 45 cars, and how Larson used his advantage in short distance speed to secure the win.
Hamlin noted that if it weren’t for track issues, Reddick would have found Victory Lane. He managed to regain positions in all other stages, despite losing ground during pit cycles.
Heading into the fourth race of the season in Phoenix next week, both Reddick and Hamlin will be vying for crucial victory and a spot in the playoffs. Resolving pit crew issues should be the top priority for Hamlin and the 23XI team.
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