Defenseman John Taft played 15 games for the Detroit Red Wings in 1978-79. He was a fine passer who could also play effectively in his own end. The bulk of his pro career took place in the minors and he was also a reliable international player for the USA.
Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Taft spent three years at the University of Wisconsin before signing on with the US national team. He spent nearly two years on the squad and took part in the 1974, B" Pool World tourney, the 1975 World Championships and the 1976 Innsbruck Olympics before returning for one last year of college. In 1974 he was named to the "B" Pool World Championship all-star team after helping the US claim the title. In 1977 he was named to the WCHA second all-star team and was placed on the NCAA championship all-tournament team.
Drafted 81st overall by Detroit in 1974, Taft made his pro debut with the CHL's Kansas City Red Wings in 1977-78. He recorded a couple of assists and was a +2 two in 15 games for Detroit in 1978-79 and notched a personal best 32 points for KC. He played the rest of his pro career in the minors and helped the Salt Lake Golden Eagles win the CHL title in 1981 and retired in 1983.
