NASCAR: Top 3 replacement candidates for Jimmie Johnson at Hendrick Motorsports

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MARTINSVILLE, VA – MARCH 24: Kyle Larson, driver of the #42 Credit One Bank/DC Solar Chevrolet (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) /

Kyle Larson (continued)

In regard to Hendrick Motorsports, team owner Rick Hendrick actually prevented Kasey Kahne, who was set to begin driving for the team in the 2012 season, from competing in the IndyCar championship finale at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in the 2011 season to compete for $5 million if he were to start last and win the race.

Dan Wheldon ended up being the driver who started last and attempted to win the money, but he ended up being killed as a result of a wreck that took place early in the race, which was ultimately canceled. After effectively playing a huge role in saving Kahne’s life, it’s hard to see Hendrick allowing Larson to run the Memorial Day Double if he goes to Hendrick Motorsports.

With all of that said, keep in mind the fact that Larson is definitely a NASCAR driver before he is an IndyCar driver. Plus, Johnson hasn’t retired yet, and there is no timetable for his retirement. Add to that the fact that Larson still drives for Chip Ganassi Racing, so he could very well end up running the Memorial Day Double within the next year or so and still join Hendrick Motorsports as Johnson’s replacement in the #48 Chevrolet depending on when he retires. Don’t rule any of it out.

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