NHL Review Concludes After 45 Years

Supporters of video reviews in hockey have long maintained that no matter how lengthy the process, their goal is to ensure accuracy—particularly with scoring. Fans will be thrilled to hear that the league has finally settled its longest scoring review, and it seems they’ve done it right this time.

This review, believe it or not, has taken 45 years.

The focus of this prolonged discussion was Gordie Howe’s iconic last goal (No. 801). On April 9, 1980, while playing for the Hartford Whalers against the Canadiens in the playoffs, Howe received a pass from his son, Mark, and scored against goaltender Dennis Heron, narrowing Montreal’s lead to 8-4.

It’s romantic in a way, isn’t it? But there’s a hitch. The official scorer credited Howe without acknowledging a pass from Whalers’ goaltender, John “Cheech” Garrett.

Garrett, who played 207 games in the NHL before transitioning to broadcasting, has been advocating for the recognition of his assist for nearly half a century. He didn’t go public with his appeal immediately after the game, but over the years, he has used his platform to bring attention to his case.

In a recent interview, Garrett said, “It’s a hard pass. Mark takes it, Mark gives it to Gordy, and Gordy gets this beautiful goal. Why can’t I get an assist on it?” He even reached out to Benny Elkolani, a former league statistician, about the situation.

While he didn’t voice his complaints right after the game, Garrett gradually gained support—especially from Canucks fans—who rallied for him in 2013 through a social media campaign.

Finally, all that effort has paid off. During a break in Game 2 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final, Ron McLean, a broadcaster for “Hockey Night in Canada,” announced that Garrett has now officially been credited with an assist on Howe’s final goal.

With a little humor, McLean remarked, “NHL’s Colin Campbell advised not to write a letter looking for assists.” But it’s a win—Garrett’s assist will now be added to the record books.

Garrett expressed his feelings, stating, “This is the official John Garrett. I finally have an assist on the last goal that Gordie scored.” It’s a bittersweet resolution to a long-standing issue, but perhaps it’s better late than never.