John Garrett, beloved hockey broadcaster and former NHL goalie, died at the age of 74, the Canucks announced Tuesday.
Garrett was part of the Sportsnet broadcast team that was working the first-round playoff series between the Golden Knights and Mammoth. The Canadian sports network syndicated ESPN’s broadcast of Monday night’s game.
“It is with profound sadness we share the news of the sudden passing of John Garrett, a beloved colleague, friend, and one of the most familiar voices in Canadian hockey,” Sportsnet said in a statement. “‘Cheech’ was a legend. His warmth, [humor], and genuine love for the game endeared him to fans and colleagues alike. He brought insight, authenticity, and heart to every broadcast.
“He will be remembered not only for his remarkable career, but for the kindness and joy he shared with everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. John will be missed immensely. Our deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones.”
Garrett was the 38th overall pick by the Blues in the 1971 NHL Draft and spent six seasons in the NHL, playing for the Hartford Whalers, Quebec Nordiques and Canucks.
He finished his NHL career with a 68-91-37 record with a 3.47 goals-against average and .866 save percentage.
Garrett was named to the NHL All-Star Game in 1983, which was held at the Nassau Coliseum on Long Island.
Garrett’s playing career also took him to the now-defunct World Hockey Association, where he spent six seasons, appearing with the Minnesota Fighting Stars, Toronto Toros, Birmingham Bulls and New England Whalers.
After he hung up his skates, Garrett moved into broadcasting as a color commentator on “Hockey Night in Canada” in 1986. He later joined Sportsnet in 1998.
During that time, he worked as a color analyst on Oilers and Flames broadcasts before becoming part of the Canucks’ broadcasting team. The 2022-23 season marked his final one in the broadcast booth for the Canucks. He spent the past three seasons on national telecasts.
“On behalf of the Aquilini family and everyone at Canucks Sports & Entertainment, we are devastated by this loss,” Michael Doyle, president, business operations for the Canucks, said. “John meant so much to this organization and to our fans. He brought an unmistakable energy, humour, and authenticity to every broadcast, and had a way of making people feel connected to our team and to each other.
“He will be deeply missed, not only for what he did, but for who he was.”
