Similar to Phoenix Raceway's main event, Las Vegas plays a crucial role in building a notebook. The Nevada facility hosts an event in the Cup Series Round of 8 and serves as a playoff driver's first chance to advance to the Championship 4. A strong run in the spring could play a big factor later down the line.

FORECAST: WeatherUnderground — A mix of clouds and sunshine with a high of 72 degrees and 10-15 mph winds. It’s expected to be 62 degrees with a 0% chance of rain at the start of the Cup race. LAST YEAR: Kyle Larson led a race-high 181 laps and held off a late charge by runner-up Tyler Reddic.