Denny Hamlin points to “the negative part” of NASCAR racing at Bristol's elimination night

After an improved performance at Bristol compared to his initial playoff outings, Denny Hamlin shared his thoughts on the complexities of competing in the playoffs, particularly against drivers he is closely contesting in points. He acknowledged the need for balance among all competitors, including himself, aiming to complete the race without causing any interruptions.

Hamlin's regular season showed his consistency but his performance dipped during the first two playoff races amid charter negotiation controversies, dropping him below the cutline. Nevertheless, at the Bristol elimination race, the 43-year-old regained form, securing a P4 finish after starting P8.

Discussing the dynamics of racing against direct competitors in the points standings, Denny Hamlin highlighted drivers' mixed feelings about their performances. Speaking on the 'Actions Detrimental' podcast, he said:

"Just remember, too, you had at least 10 drivers in the field that were just happy running where they were at. This is the negative part to cut lines, eliminations when I got to top three or so. At that time, I told Chris, do not talk to me about points, just let me race."

"But I can see what's going on, right? I see when we lap someone who I'm battling in points with, I know that they're not having a great day, and I know that if I just beat them at this point, I'm good to go. So, what I do? I get to the finish line. I don't want to cause a caution," he added.

Denny Hamlin elaborated that all drivers, himself included, must push their limits and try driving closer to the wall. He added:

"People don't understand, you have to push it. You have to push every inch which means getting up closer to the wall. I think 10 guys managed the risk to just get through."

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Previewing Denny Hamlin's Hollywood Casino 400

Denny Hamlin is ready to compete in the first race of the Round-of-12 at Kansas Speedway on Sunday, September 29. He boasts an impressive track record with an average finish of 12.3 across 32 starts and four victories, one of which came at last year’s spring race with the Next Gen car.

During his last outing at Kansas Speedway in May 2024, Denny Hamlin secured a fifth-place finish, starting from the 14th position. The race’s moment came during a restart, where Kyle Larson’s move placed Hamlin three-wide alongside Chris Buescher, pushing Hamlin from first to third.

On the final lap, caught between Joe Gibbs Racing teammate Martin Truex Jr. and Hendrick Motorsports driver Chase Elliott, Hamlin struggled with positioning. The tactical disadvantage on Turns 1 and 2 caused him to lose momentum, ultimately relegating him to a fifth-place finish.