Poker: Know how to read your opponent’s bet

How you interpret the size of an opponent’s bet, especially in relation to his stack at certain points in a tournament, can give you the chance to take down a pot or tell you to get away from a loser.

Marcel Luske read it right at the $15,000-buy-in Doyle Brunson Five Diamond World Poker Classic at Las Vegas’ Bellagio in 2007.

With blinds at $2,000-$4,000 plus a $500 ante, players neared the money bubble, the point where those remaining in the event finish in the money, allowing aggressive players to take advantage of those who fear risk.

After a player in middle position raised to $12,000, Luske looked down to find 10-9 offsuit in the big blind. Owning a considerably bigger stack, Luske called the additional $8,000.

“The guy is not strong enough in chips to make a move,” Luske said. “In the bubble position, it’s very hard for people to play hands when they’re not that strong in chips.”

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