CUP: Hamlin Tears ACL, Not Expected To Miss Races

Sprint Cup

CUP: Hamlin Tears ACL, Not Expected To Miss Races

Denny Hamlin injured his knee on the basketball court...

Bob Pockrass | http://www.scenedaily.com | Posted January 24, 2010 Charlotte, NC

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin answers questions Monday at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Hamlin tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee Friday. (Photo: LAT Photographic)

Joe Gibbs Racing driver Denny Hamlin tore his anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee playing basketball Friday, but he is not expected to miss any racing because of the injury, a team spokesman confirmed Sunday.

Hamlin, an avid basketball player who had arthroscopic surgery on his right knee for a torn meniscus in December, is considered one of the top candidates for the Sprint Cup title. He won three of the final 11 events last year and finished fifth in the standings.

Because of the time of recovery after ACL surgery, Hamlin likely won’t have surgery until after the 2010 season.

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