John Garrett, Ex-NHL Goalie and Broadcaster, Dies at 74

John Garrett, a former NHL goaltender and longtime hockey broadcaster known for his humor and insight, died suddenly at age 74 while working a playoff series in Salt Lake City.

Sportsnet announced his death on Tuesday, with no cause provided. Garrett had been providing color commentary for the first-round playoff matchup between the Utah Hockey Club and Vegas Golden Knights. He stepped back from a full-time role with the Vancouver Canucks after the 2022-23 season but continued select assignments for the network.

Born in Trenton, Ontario, Garrett launched his professional career in 1971 after being drafted by the St. Louis Blues. He debuted in the World Hockey Association with the Minnesota Fighting Saints, later playing for the Toronto Toros, Birmingham Bulls and New England Whalers, where he earned an assist on Gordie Howe's final NHL goal after the team's 1979 merger into the league. In the NHL, he suited up for Hartford, Quebec and Vancouver, retiring in 1986. Nicknamed "Cheech" for his resemblance to comedian Cheech Marin, Garrett earned another moniker, "Lotto," during his final seasons for his high goals-against average.

That same year, he transitioned to broadcasting,...