Kane downplays Hart race: McDavid is 'head and shoulders' above peers

Chicago Blackhawks star Patrick Kane is content to be in the conversation but isn't expecting to add a second Hart Trophy to his mantle at season's end.

The 2016 MVP believes Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid has this year's award sewn up.

"I don't think anyone's going to really touch McDavid this year," Kane told Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun-Times. "He's just (by) head and shoulders, the best player in the league. And their team is having a great year."

McDavid leads the league with 63 points in 37 games, and the Oilers are in the mix for the top spot in the North Division. Kane ranks third in scoring in the NHL with 49 points and has garnered considerable buzz to be a finalist for MVP since he's put the Blackhawks - who were largely expected to be a lottery team - within reach of a playoff spot in the Central.

At this point, Kane is solely focused on earning wins rather than individual accolades.

"But at the same time, it's nice to hear those types of things," Kane said. "Usually it means your team is in a good position throughout the year, as well. For me, I don't really think about it too much. (I) just want to help the team win."

Kane's 2016 Hart Trophy marks the only time he's been a finalist for the award in his 14-year career. McDavid won the prestigious trophy in 2017 and finished third in voting in 2019.