Brier 2026: McEwen's playoffs push, Knapp's exit, and what you need to know
The 2026 Montana's Brier is delivering all the drama you'd expect from Canada's men's curling championship, and the picture in Regina is coming into focus with each passing draw. We've seen heartbreak, clutch shot-making, and the kind of tension that makes this event a national treasure. If you're putting together your own brier 2026 guide, here's the state of play after another pivotal round.
The McEwen Factor: Chasing History
Manitoba's Mike McEwen is on the cusp of something special. With a fourth straight playoffs appearance on the line, his team stumbled against a fellow Manitoban rink, dropping a crucial decision to Braden Calvert's crew. But don't write McEwen off just yet. The path is still there, and you can bet he's already plotting the angles for the must-win games ahead. Word around the patch is this team has been here before, and they know how to handle the pressure cooker that is the brier 2026 round robin.
Knapp vs. Gushue: A Clash of Titans
The showdown everyone had circled lived up to the billing. It was all about Knapp and the legendary Brad Gushue. In a game that had the crowd on the edge of their seats, Gushue's experience ultimately proved too much, handing Knapp a loss that eliminates him from main-page contention. It was a masterclass in patience from the three-time Brier champion, but Knapp flashed moments of brilliance that suggest we'll be seeing his name in these conversations for years to come. For anyone looking for an in-depth brier 2026 review of tactical curling, this game is the one to re-watch.
Calvert's Critical Strike
On the other sheet, Manitoba's Braden Calvert cemented his status as a serious threat. His victory over McEwen wasn't just a statement win; it was a lifeline. Calvert's rink has been flying under the radar for some, but after this performance, the rest of the field has to take notice. Here's a breakdown of what made the difference for him:
- Rock placement: Calvert consistently buried his stones in perfect scoring position, forcing McEwen into low-percentage shots.
- Hammer efficiency: When he had the last rock, he made it count, turning ends into multiples and keeping the scoreboard ticking.
- Steals at key moments: A crucial steal in the seventh end swung the momentum and never let it go.
It was a clinic in how to beat a top-tier opponent, and it blew the playoffs race wide open.
What's Next in the Brier 2026 Guide
With the round robin winding down, every draw now feels like a final. McEwen needs to regroup and likely win out to secure his spot. Knapp, while out of title contention, can still play spoiler and shape the final four. And Calvert? He's riding a wave of confidence that could carry him all the way to the weekend.
Keep your eyes on the tiebreaker scenarios – this is where the brier 2026 gets truly wild. We'll have full coverage and analysis as the road to the championship continues. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just tuning in, this is the moment where legends are made.