Quote:
Originally Posted by DevinLake
I think the result most people really feel they want with the 3bet here is a fold. If they call what more do we know? Do we know anymore about his 3bet calling range than we know about his opening range? Do we know how he's going to respond to cbets? If we do narrow it to a strong hand range, why do we want to play against a range that is stronger than AK? If we really are making the 3bet to get folds, why not do it with 97s, A3s, or something like that?
I can understand your dislike for this 3-bet mentality, since, really it's a form of playing scared with a very strong hand (AKo) that has much post-flop value. However, the fact of the matter is that 3-betting does generate more information, in nearly all cases, even if you're playing a maniac.
Let's assume you're playing at a table with a Level 1-2 mentality, in which there is very little bluffing taking place pre-flop (such as the table in question in this analysis). If Villain has KK, on most occasions he will 4-bet, right? And with what else will he 4-bet? AA, probably. QQ often. JJ, sometimes. AK, occasionally.
It's highly unlikely any other combos are in his 4-bet range. So, already, we have some decent information, against those hands which either have us dominated or flipping at best, and
therefore reduce the chances of playing against a range that is stronger than AK.
I'll admit the issue of the 3-bet calling range is tricky, especially against a loose recreational player, but at least, it does make it easier to play an Axx or Kxx board, by taking the dominating hands out of the equation (AA/KK). I know this sounds fundamental and therefore a little dull, but is still very relevant.
Also, understand that a loose recreational player will flat a 3-bet with AJ or AQ quite often, sometimes even with random Ax, KQ, KJ, 22-10, which provides Hero with a super +EV situation. If Hero thinks about his 3-betting frequency, and also 3-bet lights with A3 or 97 in the right spot at the right time, like you suggest, then the likelihood of getting into these +EV situations is even greater. But, then, of course, Hero also has to be wary of Level 3+ situations, where Regs will start flatting him with AA, KK or 4-betting light.