Flop Analysis
Checking is a solid mixed strategy here to protect our range, though small betting is slightly preferred to extract value from 8x and draws.
We must call down more aggressively with middle pairs on wet boards when getting good pot odds, rather than folding to turn pressure.
Checking is a solid mixed strategy here to protect our range, though small betting is slightly preferred to extract value from 8x and draws.
Easy call. We have second pair and the BTN can be betting many flush draws, straight draws, or weaker pairs like 77-55.
Checking is mandatory on this wet turn that completes both flushes and straights.
Folding here is a significant mistake. Despite the board becoming very coordinated, our hand has too much equity to fold against a half-pot bet. **Math:** We are getting 2.8:1 on a call, meaning we only need about 26% equity to continue. With a pair and a gutshot to a straight, we have roughly 44% equity against the BTN's range, making this a mandatory continue. **Ranges:** BTN's range still contains many bluffs that we unblock, such as Ax with the Ace of spades or hands like KcTh. By folding, we allow the BTN to over-bluff us on cards that look scary but don't always hit their range. **Blockers:** Our Tc and Th are actually good cards to hold because they don't block the spade flush draws the BTN might be bluffing with, increasing the likelihood they are semi-bluffing. --- > **Takeaway:** Don't let scary board textures force you into folding hands that still have significant equity and great pot odds.
Note: Folding is too tight here; we have a pair plus a gutshot and are getting excellent pot odds to see a river.