Bottcher Returns to Skip as Former Team Gushue Duo Teams Up with Horgan Brothers in Alberta

One of curling's most anticipated new lineups is official. Brendan Bottcher is back in the hack, joining forces with lead Geoff Walker -- his former teammate on Team Gushue -- along with brothers Jacob Horgan at third and Tanner Horgan at second, forming a new Alberta-based rink for the 2026-27 season. Bottcher, a 2021 Brier champion and five-time Grand Slam winner, spent the past two seasons playing second for the now-retired Brad Gushue before returning to the role that earned him four straight Brier final appearances. Walker brings 15 seasons of elite experience to the front end, including six Brier Tankards, a world championship, and an Olympic bronze. The Horgan brothers -- who represented Northern Ontario at three Briers -- complete a lineup built from top to bottom with championship pedigree and a clear eye on the podium.