Flop Analysis
A small c-bet is ideal on this semi-wet board to keep SB's range wide while extracting value from pocket pairs and spade draws.
We successfully extracted value by checking the turn to trap with top set, though we must be careful on flush-completing rivers.
A small c-bet is ideal on this semi-wet board to keep SB's range wide while extracting value from pocket pairs and spade draws.
Checking back top set is a high-frequency trap. We block the hands SB would call a bet with (Kx), so checking lets them bluff or catch up with a second-best hand. **Ranges:** We hold the effective nuts, blocking SB's top pair combos like AK/KQ. By checking, we allow SB's middle pairs (TT-QQ) and spade draws to continue to the river. **Blockers:** Holding the K♠ is significant as it blocks the second-nut flush draw, making it less likely SB is drawing to a hand that will fold to a turn bet. --- > **Takeaway:** When you crush the board and block the calling range, checking back can be the best way to maximize total pot value.
Shoving is a viable value line, though checking back is often preferred to protect our checking range when the flush completes. **Board:** The 8s is a difficult card as it completes the spade flush and the 67 straight. While we have trips, we now lose to any two spades in SB's range. **Sizing:** Going all-in for roughly pot-size targets SB's remaining sets (99, 55) and stubborn overpairs that don't believe the flush. However, against a disciplined opponent, this sizing might only get called by hands that beat us. --- > **Takeaway:** On river cards that complete multiple draws, consider checking back strong non-nutted hands to avoid value-cutting yourself against a polarized range.