AVONDALE, Ariz. — Denny Hamlin had a championship within his sights before, four years ago when the Sprint Cup title was his to lose. It slipped away over the final two races of the season, including a demoralizing defeat at Phoenix International Raceway. He arrived in Phoenix as the points leader and had Jimmie Johnson on the ropes as Hamlin led more than half the laps and appeared headed to the win.
Just two races remain in Chase

