Denny Hamlin climbs out of his car in victory lane after winning the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series auto race at Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kan., Sunday, April 22, 2012. (AP Photo/Orlin Wagner)
Denny Hamlin imploded over the final two races in 2010, killing his chance at the Sprint Cup championship. Last season, he won just one race and finished ninth in the standings. (Associated Press)
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Denny Hamlin is doused after winning at Michigan International Speedway, his first Sprint Cup victory of the season. Hamlin won eight times on the circuit in 2010.
FILE - From left are 2010, file photos showing NASCAR's three title contenders from left, Kevin Harvick, Jimmie Johnson and Denny Hamlin. The season finale is Sunday, Nov. 21 at Homestead-Miami Speedway. (AP Photo/File)
NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin races through turn 4 during practice for the Auto Club 400 auto race at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, Calif. Saturday March 26, 2011. (AP Photo/Will Lester)
Denny Hamlin climbs into his car during practice for Sunday's NASCAR Sprint Cup series AAA 400 auto race, Saturday, Sept. 25, 2010, at Dover International Speedway in Dover, Del. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)