A clever offensive left-winger, Gary Jarrett was a solid NHL performer with the Red Wings and Seals before joining the World Hockey Association. He utilized his speed and self-discipline effectively and was a solid addition wherever he played as a pro.
The Toronto native played junior with the hometown Marlboros and delivered mail to the offices and players at the Gardens. He received a one game audition from the Maple Leafs in 1960-61. During the early 1960s Toronto was a deep club in the midst of three straight Stanley Cup wins. Jarrett toiled in four different minor pro leagues while awaiting his chance to prove he belonged in the NHL. In 1965 he was a secondary figure in a trade between Detroit and Toronto which involved future Hall of Fame members Andy Bathgate and Marcel Pronovost. Jarrett enjoyed a solid year with the AHL"s Pittsburgh Hornets in 1966-67 when he recorded 71 points in 68 games and learned a great deal from wily linemates Don McKenney and Billy Harris. The trio were a key factor in the Hornets' Calder Cup triumph.
The NHL expansion in 1967 doubled the number of big league positions available. As a result, Jarrett played 68 games for Detroit in 1967-68 and often lined up with veteran star Gordie Howe. Following the season he was traded to the Oakland Seals in a deal that included the colourful Howie Young and experienced defenceman Bob Baun. In 1968-69, Jarrett scored 22 goals and helped the Seals improve from last place to second in the West Division. The hard-working winger played four seasons in California and was one of the few consistent players on what became one of the worst teams in the NHL. Jarrett retired temporarily in 1972 but returned a few weeks later in the World Hockey Association.
Jarrett was originally picked by the Alberta/Edmonton Oilers in the WHA General Player Draft but was soon dealt to the Cleveland Crusaders. He played his last four pro seasons in Ohio including a 40-goal performance in 1972-73 before retiring in 1976.
