Busch has talked to Kanaan about NASCAR Trucks

AVONDALE, Ariz. — Kyle Busch has had discussions with IndyCar driver Tony Kanaan about having the Brazilian run some NASCAR races for Busch's team.

"I told him that with Toyota's support and with the support of the Trucks Series, I think it would be kind of fun to see him," Busch said Friday at Phoenix International Raceway.

"Test him a little bit, get his feet wet. Get him in some good equipment, go out there and run some races and get some experience. Maybe next year and maybe 2012 go on in a full year. That's kind of what I explained to him."

Busch said Kanaan has yet to decide if he's interested in competing in the Trucks Series.

Kanaan, the 2004 IndyCar champion and winner of 14 races, is currently looking for a job in the IndyCar Series. He was released from Andretti Autosport at the end of the season because the team does not have a sponsor for him in 2011.

"Whether or not he wants to do that or venture down this pathway, I respect his decision to stay in the IRL," Busch said. "That's where he's made his bread and butter, and that's where he's really good. If that's where he decides to stay, that's good for him."

Busch is in his first season of ownership in the Trucks Series. He's won seven races driving his own equipment, but has had funding issues and other struggles associated with a startup team.