Drivers who could make early statement at Clash

Every time a driver straps into the car, they have dreams of making it to Victory Lane. Performing well in the first race of the season could jump-start a title-winning campaign, even in an exhibition race like the Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum.

Though you could make a strong case for others, scroll through the gallery to see this short list of drivers who have a very good chance to make a big opening statement.

Kyle Busch

Team: Richard Childress Racing
2022 Clash starting position: 1
2022 Clash finishing position: 2


It is no secret that Busch is entering 2023 with a chip on his shoulder after his historic departure from Joe Gibbs Racing. For one of the sport's brightest stars, winning in Los Angeles would only add to the growing saga. And it wouldn't be a fluke. Busch led a race-high 64 laps in the inaugural Clash at the Coliseum and should have extra motivation this year to get to Victory Lane with RCR as soon as possible.

Chris Buescher

Team: RFK Racing
2022 Clash starting position: DNQ


Buescher failed to qualify for the 2022 Busch Light Clash, leaving him sidelined for the first big event for newly-formed RFK Racing. But throughout the year, Buescher and the No. 17 team's performance improved dramatically, and they captured the Bristol Night Race victory after leading 169 laps. His short-track prowess should come in handy this time around after a full season with the Next Gen car, and perhaps RFK Racing can prove they are more consistent contenders in Year 2.

Martin Truex Jr.

Team: Joe Gibbs Racing
2022 Clash starting position: 23
2022 Clash finishing position: 15


Shockingly, Truex Jr. failed to reach Victory Lane in 2022, ending a streak of seven consecutive seasons with a win. One win is often all it takes to spark a remarkable run-of-form, even if the win comes in an exhibition. Overall, Toyota was a bit slow out of the gates last year but picked it up as the season went on. The upcoming Busch Light Clash is a chance for them to hit the ground running and for Truex to prove he still has the winning formula, especially at technical short tracks.

Erik Jones

Team: Petty GMS
2022 Clash starting position: 16
2022 Clash finishing position: 4


Jones stormed through the Clash field in 2022, gaining a remarkable 12 positions in the main event. If he can qualify better this year, he could arguably be a strong favorite to win the race. Entering his third season with Petty GMS, consistency will be key for a driver who has proven he can run up front. Now driving for not one, but two seven-time Cup Series champions, a winning performance in the season-opening race would go a very long way for this organization's momentum.

AJ Allmendinger

Team: Kaulig Racing
2022 Clash starting position: 21
2022 Clash finishing position: 9


In 2022, Allmendinger started deep in the field but made the most of the 150-lap shootout. His aggressive driving style and unique prowess behind the wheel pairs well with a door-to-door, bumper-to-bumper race like the Clash. And just think, his impressive performance was his first time seated behind the wheel of the Next Gen car. With increased focus and a full-time Cup Series role, Allmendinger can prove from Day 1 that he is a serious contender for multiple wins and the series championship — which is exactly what Kaulig Racing has in mind.

Kevin Harvick

Team: Stewart-Haas Racing
2022 Clash starting position: 19
2022 Clash finishing position: 10


Harvick found his footing toward the end of the 2022 regular season, reeling off back-to-back wins and carrying the hottest hand into the playoffs. With his big Victory Lane drought well in the rearview mirror, Harvick could immediately return to the strong form he flashed in LA one season ago. In what could be his final full-time season behind the wheel, every prestigious victory is another notch to add to the future NASCAR Hall of Famer's resume.

Ryan Preece

Team: Stewart-Haas Racing
2022 Clash starting position: 18
2022 Clash finishing position: 20


This is the chance Preece waited for by running a part-time, mixed national series schedule in 2022. He has two Xfinity Series victories, each coming at short tracks and has a strong record of success with this racing style. With uncertainties about the future of Kevin Harvick and Aric Almirola, a monumental win at the historic LA Coliseum could be the first step in solidifying Preece as a stable staple alongside Chase Briscoe for seasons to come.

Joey Logano

Team: Team Penske
2022 Clash starting position: 4
2022 Clash finishing position: Winner


The 2022 season was one for Logano to remember after conquering the inaugural Busch Light Clash to open the year and capping it off with his second Cup Series title. Logano has proven to have a knack for winning these types of races and should be among the favorites to make it back to the Championship 4 in Phoenix. Another win at this iconic venue could bring more good fortune to the No. 22 team in their chase for the trifecta and prove that they are still the team to beat.