brier playoffs

The Brier Playoffs 2026: Saskatchewan Teams Fall Short of the Mark

The 2026 Tim Hortons Brier, curling’s national men's championship, delivered another heartbreaking chapter for Saskatchewan. Both provincial teams—the Mike McEwen rink and the Kelly Knapp rink—were officially eliminated from playoff contention after a dramatic final round robin draw on March 5, 2026. This marked a disappointing end to what had been a season filled with high hopes and intense competition.

For Saskatchewan, the Brier has long been a cornerstone of its sporting identity. The province boasts a rich curling history, producing numerous world champions and Olympic medalists. The absence of both teams from the playoffs this year is not just a statistical anomaly; it represents a significant moment for the province's curling community, its fans, and the athletes themselves who had invested countless hours on the ice.

Recent Developments: The Final Blow

The decisive moment came in Draw 15 of the round robin. In a game that would prove pivotal, Team McEwen faced off against the defending champion Brad Gushue rink. While Gushue secured a crucial victory, the real story unfolded elsewhere on the sheet.

It was the outcome of a match between the Kelly Knapp rink and the Ontario team skipped by John Epping that sealed Saskatchewan’s fate. Knapp's rink lost their final game, which meant they finished with a 5–5 record. More critically, it allowed other teams to finish ahead of them, pushing them out of the top six and into seventh place. With only the top six advancing to the playoffs, this result was insurmountable.

This double elimination means that no Saskatchewan men's or women's team will be competing in the page playoff system, which includes the A/B semifinals, a chance at the bronze medal, and the gold medal final. It’s a stark contrast to previous years where Saskatchewan has often dominated, sending multiple teams to compete for the coveted prize.

Historical Context: A Province with a Curling Legacy

Saskatchewan’s relationship with the Brier is one of deep passion and tradition. The province has consistently been a powerhouse in Canadian curling, with its teams frequently making deep runs in the national tournament. The Brier itself, first held in 1927, has seen many Saskatchewan skips lead their teams to victory, etching their names into curling lore.

However, recent years have shown signs of a shift. While Saskatchewan remains a competitive force, the rise of teams from Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta has made the national championship increasingly challenging. The 2026 Brier was no exception, with several teams showcasing superior skill and consistency throughout the week.

For the McEwen rink, this was a particularly tough pill to swallow. Known for their strategic play and resilience, McEwen has been a mainstay at the Brier for over a decade. His rink, featuring third B.J. Neufeld, second Matt Wozniak, and lead Tyler Tardi, has been a consistent presence in the national spotlight. Their early exits are a reminder of how unpredictable curling can be, especially in a high-pressure environment like the Brier.

Similarly, the Knapp rink, led by skip Kelly Knapp, second Kaitlyn Lawes (a former Olympic champion), third Jocelyn Peterman, and lead Laine Peters, entered the event as strong contenders. Lawes' experience and leadership were expected to provide a solid foundation, but despite their efforts, they fell short.

The Immediate Impact: On Athletes and Fans

The elimination of both Saskatchewan teams has sent shockwaves through the province's curling community. For athletes, it’s a moment of reflection and motivation. "We gave it everything we had," said a dejected Kelly Knapp after the final draw. "Curling is such a mental game—one bad shot can cost you everything. We’ll learn from this and come back stronger."

Fans across Saskatchewan, who had followed the teams with fervor, expressed their disappointment online and in local media. Social media was flooded with messages of support, with hashtags like #TeamSaskCurling trending briefly. Many pointed out that while the outcome was painful, the sport itself remains a unifying force in the province.

For curling organizations in Saskatchewan, the focus now shifts to preparation for next year’s provincial championships, where the winners will once again aim to represent the province at the Brier. There’s also talk about youth development programs, ensuring that the next generation of curlers is ready to step up when the time comes.

Broader Implications: What Does This Mean for Canadian Curling?

The 2026 Brier has highlighted several trends in Canadian curling. One is the increasing competitiveness of the sport, with teams from outside traditional powerhouses like Saskatchewan making significant strides. Ontario, led by John Epping and later by others, showcased depth and consistency that proved difficult to overcome.

Another implication is the growing importance of mental resilience and adaptability. In a round-robin format where every game matters, even the smallest errors can lead to elimination. The fact that two highly skilled teams fell short underscores the fine margins that separate success from disappointment in elite curling.

Moreover, the absence of Saskatchewan teams from the playoffs has sparked conversations about coaching, training methods, and athlete development in the province. Are there systemic issues that need addressing? Or was this simply an off year? These questions will likely be debated among curling analysts and fans in the coming months.

Looking Ahead: Rebuilding and Reimagining

As the dust settles on the 2026 Brier, Saskatchewan’s curling community must begin the process of rebuilding. For Mike McEwen and his team, this means reassessing strategies, possibly bringing in new coaches or adjusting lineups to regain their edge. McEwen himself has hinted at exploring new approaches, saying, "You have to evolve. The game changes, and so do we."

For Kelly Knapp and her rink, the focus will be on maintaining momentum. With Kaitlyn Lawes' wealth of experience, there’s potential for a strong resurgence. The team may use this setback as fuel, aiming to return to the Brier with renewed determination.

Looking beyond the province, the broader Canadian curling landscape appears poised for transformation. With emerging talent and evolving techniques, the sport continues to grow in popularity. The 2026 Brier, while disappointing for Saskatchewan, has contributed valuable lessons and set the stage for future competitions.

In the end, curling is more than just a game—it’s a test of precision, strategy, and nerve. The 2026 Brier may have ended without Saskatchewan on the podium, but the spirit of competition and the love for the sport remain as strong as ever.

Sources: - Both Saskatchewan squads eliminated from Brier playoff contention – Regina Leader Post - Mike McEwen, Kelly Knapp rinks fall short of playoffs at Brier – paNOW - Brier Takeaways: Final draw costs Mike McEwen spot in playoffs – Sportsnet