The Chicago Blackhawks forward was third in the NHL with 110 points (44 goals, 66 assists).
"It's great to have Patrick back and captaining our team again in the World Championship," U.S. coach Jeff Blashill said. "He's one of the most dynamic players in the game today and passionate about helping bring a gold medal home to our country."
Kane was captain for the U.S. at the 2018 Worlds, where he led all players with 20 points (eight goals, 12 assists) in 10 games, helped the U.S. win the bronze medal and was named most valuable player of the tournament.
USA Hockey will announce the rest of the roster later this week.
The U.S. will open preliminary-round play against Slovakia at Steel Arena in Kosice on May 10 (2:15 p.m. ET; NHLN). Joining them in Group A are Canada, Finland, Germany, Denmark, France and Great Britain.
All U.S. games will be televised live on NHL Network.
Group B consists of Sweden, Russia, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Norway, Latvia, Austria and Italy.
