As the postseason unfolds and the playoffs heat up, the spotlight shines bright on the drivers contending for the championship. Denny Hamlin, known for his competitive spirit and daring driving style, has been turning heads this year, both on and off the track. But what do the paddock insiders have to say about Hamlin’s strengths and weaknesses as he vies for the coveted title?

The Athletic recently reached out to drivers, crew chiefs, and competition directors promising anonymity, to gain insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the eight playoff drivers. And when it came to Denny Hamlin, the insiders pointed out what’s most likely to go wrong with him as the #11 driver for Joe Gibbs Racing gears up for the final 4 races of the postseason.

Paddock Insiders shed light on Denny Hamlin’s weaknesses

Denny Hamlin’s 2023 NASCAR campaign has been defined by more than just victories and podium finishes. The Joe Gibbs Racing driver has displayed a newfound level of confidence. Some may even call it arrogance. And it has not gone unnoticed in the NASCAR paddock. However, this transformation has also attracted unwanted attention, particularly from the four-time NASCAR Cup champion and Hendrick Motorsports Vice Chairman, Jeff Gordon.

When it came to talking about Hamlin’s weakness, one insider remarked, “As good as they are, they still tend to make that one killer mistake at the worst time,” Potentially referring to his pit road disasters. Another insider acknowledged, “Some people will say maybe he’s choked in the past. And while I don’t think that’s true, I mean, he has made mistakes at critical times. And that’s the only thing I think is a pitfall, potentially.”

But it’s not just about his performance on the track. The insiders also pointed to Phoenix Raceway as Hamlin’s Achilles heel. Despite his remarkable qualifying form at the track, he has only won there twice in his 19-year career. His recent record at Phoenix hasn’t been stellar, with an average finish of 10.6 in his last seven races at the track since 2020. As one insider put it, “Phoenix is his Achilles heel. Maybe this is finally the year that he can do it, but I don’t think he can get past Phoenix.”

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While Denny Hamlin’s newfound arrogance has raised eyebrows and sparked controversies, it also seems to have found a liking among some paddock insiders.

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While Hamlin’s newfound arrogance has stirred controversy, some paddock insiders have found themselves drawn to his unapologetic demeanor. NASCAR fans have long appreciated Hamlin’s aggressive driving style and his willingness to speak his mind. A rare quality among drivers in the sport. The recent feud with Gordon exemplifies Hamlin’s candid nature.

When the time came to talk about Hamlin’s strength, one insider said, “I wouldn’t bet against him, even if he’s annoying. I like his arrogance. I like him embracing who he is right now.” This appreciation for Hamlin’s authenticity highlights the paradox of his public image – simultaneously divisive and endearing to fans and insiders alike.

Additionally, Hamlin’s crew chief, Chris Gabehart, received praise from an insider who admired his thoughtful and calculated approach. “I have tremendous respect for Chris as a crew chief. I think he is one of the best. He’s obviously really smart. He seems to think things out well, not a shoot-from-the-hip kind of guy.”

Hamlin and his crew chief, Chris Gabehart, are preparing for a pivotal run at the championship. Despite a disappointing race at Charlotte Roval, Hamlin remains optimistic about his prospects. As the battles on and off the track intensify, NASCAR fans can expect to see more of the dynamic and complex personality that is Denny Hamlin.

READ MORE: “Take Notes Jeff Gordon”- Racing Community Schools Denny Hamlin Assailant As HMS Renegade Drivers Flaunt Careless Persona

Do you think Phoenix Raceway will prove to be the biggest obstacle to Hamlin’s first championship title? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.