Denny Hamlin took the lead in NASCAR standings on June 30. He benefited from Tyler Reddick's poor finishes in June.
What happened at Sonoma?
Shane van Gisbergen won at Sonoma, nearly getting caught by Chase Briscoe.
Why did Reddick struggle?
Reddick's crew chased a power-steering issue after Stage 1. He finished 36th at Sonoma.
How did Hamlin gain ground?
Hamlin finished 14th and 26th in the last two road races. Reddick's struggles handed Hamlin the lead.
Hamlin's four wins over five weeks had already cut into Reddick's points lead. Reddick's June swoon sealed the deal.
Reddick had a great road-course history, but his recent finishes were 35th, 25th, and 36th.
The good news for Reddick is that June is over. He can regroup for the next race.
NASCAR returns to Chicagoland soon. Hamlin will look to maintain his lead.
Reddick finished behind Hamlin at Pocono. That was one of the few bright spots in Reddick's June.
Hamlin's lead is a result of his consistent finishes. He has been one of the most consistent drivers in NASCAR.
The next road-course race is in March. Until then, Hamlin will focus on maintaining his lead.
Reddick's 36th place finish at Sonoma was his worst of the season. He will look to bounce back soon.
Hamlin's win at Pocono was one of the highlights of his season. He finished ahead of Reddick.
The NASCAR standings are tight. Hamlin's lead is not secure.
Reddick will look to regain his form soon. He has been one of the top drivers in NASCAR.
Hamlin's consistent finishes have paid off. He is now in the lead.
The next race will be important for both Hamlin and Reddick. They will look to gain ground.