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USA Today via Reuters
Aug 22, 2020; Dover, Delaware, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin (11) celebrates in victory lane after winning the NASCAR Cup Series at Dover International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports | Reuters
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USA Today via Reuters
Aug 22, 2020; Dover, Delaware, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin (11) celebrates in victory lane after winning the NASCAR Cup Series at Dover International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports | Reuters
The rumor mill is active as NASCAR‘s Silly Season reaches its business end. Many drivers have secured rides for the next season, with some big spots yet to be filled.
Bubba Wallace’s uncertain future is among one of the most anticipated news for the next season. In connection with that, there are many talks of a potential association between Bubba Wallace and Denny Hamlin as well.
Hamlin expressed his interest in buying a team, and NASCAR has said that it is possible for Hamlin to do so.
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USA Today via Reuters
Aug 16, 2020; Daytona Beach, FL, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Bubba Wallace (43) wrecks his car in turn one during the Go Bowling 235 Road Course at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports | Credit: Reuters
Now, another big name is being strongly linked to this association, that of NBA legend Michael Jordan. The basketball great’s name came up earlier as well, but the probability seems stronger now.
What the Denny Hamlin – Michael Jordan situation suggests
As per leading NASCAR reporter Bob Pockrass, Bubba Wallace could race for Hamlin next year. Germain Racing earlier announced they are selling the team after this season, and the No. 13 charter will be on sale.
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While there is no confirmation or strong indication from either party, Pockrass says that many involved with the No. 13 team strongly believe Hamlin will come on board. If that happens, there is a strong possibility that Jordan could accompany him.
“Whenever you talk about Denny Hamlin, you’re gonna talk about Michael Jordan right? Because he is a Jordan brand athlete,” Pockrass explained.
“I don’t want to jump to conclusions and I would say I’m kind of up in the air about this. I will say that Jordan’s people, while quick to deny the Richard Petty Motorsports rumors, have been pretty mum this week on whether there is any deal where he is involved with Hamlin and the 13,” he added.
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via Imago
Richmond, Virginia, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin (11) races during the Federated Auto Parts 400 at Richmond International Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls
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Toyota’s involvement in the scheme of things
Pockrass further explained, “The deal is not done yet. But if it gets done, it could lead to Toyota bringing the cars from Leavine Family Racing over to this time for Wallace for next year.”
Leavine Family Racing was also sold a couple of months ago, leaving Toyota with a team spot to fill. Pockrass added that NASCAR would need to approve that first since they do not want a fifth team within Joe Gibbs Racing.
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With Floyd Mayweather’s team waiting on the sidelines, it will be interesting to see if Jordan’s inclusion adds to the star value in NASCAR.
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