The hockey community has lost one of its most cherished personalities. John Garrett, the former NHL goaltender and legendary broadcaster affectionately known as "Cheech," has passed away at the age of 74.
“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,” the statement read.
Garrett was covering the Vegas Golden Knights–Utah Mammoth series at the time of his death.
“‘Cheech’ was a legend. His warmth, humour, and geniune love for the game endeared him to fans and colleagues alike. He brought insight, authenticity, and heart to every broadcast,” Sportsnet added in its statement. “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.”
A statement on the passing of John Garrett: pic.twitter.com/JAQxkdwILB
— Sportsnet PR (@SportsnetPR) April 28, 2026
Garrett played 12 seasons of professional hockey between the NHL and the WHA. In six NHL seasons between 1979-80 and 1984-85, he posted a 68-91-37 record with an .866 save percentage (SV%) and 4.28 goals against average (GAA) in 207 career regular-season games with the Hartford Whalers, Quebec Nordiques and Vancouver Canucks. In 1983, arrett was the replacement for an injured Richard Brodeur and was nearly named All-Star MVP until a late Wayne Gretzky scoring outburst.
For over 20 years, he served as the color commentator for Vancouver Canucks broadcasts on Sportsnet, forming a legendary partnership with play-by-play man John Shorthouse.
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman released a statement on Garrett’s passing, offering condolences to his family and friends.
“I always enjoyed catching up with John when our travels around the league intersected – as they did one last time on Friday night in Utah, when he broadcast the Mammoth’s first ever home playoff game,” he added.