The NHL has named Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid, Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon, and Tampa Bay Lightning winger Nikita Kucherov as the finalists for the Hart Memorial Trophy, awarded to the league's most valuable player.
McDavid led the NHL with 90 assists and 138 points, capturing his sixth Art Ross Trophy. MacKinnon led the league with 53 goals, powering the Avalanche to a franchise-record 121 points and the Presidents' Trophy. Kucherov paced the Lightning with 130 points in 76 games.
McDavid is vying for his fourth Hart Trophy, joining NHL legends Wayne Gretzky, Gordie Howe, and Eddie Shore. MacKinnon and Kucherov are each seeking their second Hart Trophy. Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck won the award last season.