John Garrett, the beloved NHL goaltender who became one of hockey’s most recognizable broadcast voices, has died at age 74. The former Vancouver Canucks player and longtime color commentator passed away after a decades-long career that touched fans across North America. From NHL Player to Broadcasting Icon Garrett played professional hockey for eight seasons across five NHL teams, including the Vancouver Canucks, Hartford Whalers, and Quebec Nordiques. His playing career spanned from 1979 to 1985, during which he competed in 207 regular season games. After hanging up his skates, Garrett transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, where he spent nearly four decades providing analysis and commentary for Canucks games. His warm personality and deep knowledge of the sport made him a fixture in Pacific Northwest homes. Known affectionately as “Cheech” by fans and colleagues, Garrett brought authenticity and humor to every broadcast. His ability to break down complex plays while keeping viewers entertained earned him respect throughout the hockey community. Garrett worked alongside play-by-play announcer John Shorthouse for years, forming one of the most popular broadcasting partnerships in Canadian sports. His insights came from real experience between the pipes, giving fans a genuine perspective on goaltending and team dynamics. Former NHL goaltender and longtime broadcaster John Garrett has passed away at the age of 74. “The National Hockey League family is stunned and saddened by the sudden passing of John Garrett, whose astute analysis took fans – particularly in Western Canada – inside our game for… pic.twitter.com/CT5cDdhUy9 — TSN (@TSN_Sports) April 28, 2026 Outpouring of Respect The hockey world reacted swiftly to news of Garrett’s passing, with tributes flooding social media from players, coaches, and fans. Former teammates remembered his leadership in the locker room, while current Canucks players acknowledged the impact his broadcasts had on their understanding of the game. The Canucks organization released a statement honoring Garrett’s contributions both on ice and in the broadcast booth, noting his dedication to the franchise and the city of Vancouver. A Lasting Legacy in Hockey Garrett’s impact extended beyond statistics and broadcast hours. He mentored young players, supported charitable causes throughout British Columbia, and remained accessible to fans who appreciated his down-to-earth approach. His broadcasting style reflected traditional values of hard work, team loyalty, and respect for the game’s history. Garrett represented a generation of hockey professionals who understood the sport’s working-class roots and never forgot where they came from. His death marks the end of an era for Canucks fans who grew up listening to his voice describe their favorite team’s triumphs and challenges. The hockey community has lost a genuine ambassador for the sport. Sources Dailymail: Legendary NHL goaltender and commentator John Garrett dead at 74 as tributes pour in