How to play 87s(87s How to Play | Preflop GTO Strategy and Win Rate)
It's a one-gap suited connector with high-quality straight draws and good deep-stack implied odds. It has about 2–4% more preflop equity than 87o, and its postflop flush draws are stronger. Only play from CO/BTN deep stack or SB to steal blinds; always fold from early position.
Preflop equity
| Matchup | 87s equity |
|---|---|
| 87s vs AKo | 43% |
| 87s vs QQ | 46% |
| 87s vs 88 | 54% |
Approximate preflop all-in data · Open preflop equity calculator →
GTO strategy
Common mistakes
- ✕87s OOP call 3-bet then over-float
- ✕87s Missed draw still called three streets.
FAQ
FAQ
- About 2–4% higher preflop equity than 87o, and stronger flush draw postflop.
Position guide
| Position | Action |
|---|---|
| UTG | However, in extremely loose or deep-stacked >200BB games, consider calling or raising 1-2BB, hoping for a multi-way pot to realize straight flush potential. |
| MP | If there is a raise before you, you can call or 3-bet bluff frequency <10%, but avoid playing against tight players. |
| CO | When folded to, raise 2.5-3BB. If there are one or more callers ahead, you can call or raise to squeeze. Avoid playing against deep-stacked players in the blinds. |
| BTN | If the blinds are tight players, you can raise frequently. If the blinds are loose-aggressive, you can call or make a small raise. When facing a 3-bet, depending on the opponent's tendencies, either call or 4-bet bluff. |
| SB | In SB position, facing a raise from CO or BTN, you can call or 3-bet bluff frequency around 15%. If the blind is a loose player, you can call; if tight, you can raise or fold. Avoid battling with the BB's big stack. |
| BB | If the SB calls, you can raise to squeeze. When facing a 3-bet, call or fold based on pot odds and opponent tendencies. |
Postflop board textures
g. 7♣2♦9♠
If missed, you can continuation bet as a bluff because the board texture is unlikely to hit your opponent's range. Watch out for possible sets from your opponent.
Wet connected board e.g. 9♠8♠7♥
On wet connected boards, 87s can hit two pair, straights, or flush draws. You should bet or raise to build the pot, but avoid overcommitting. If the board has straight or flush possibilities, be cautious and control the pot, considering a check-raise.
g. K♠K♦7♣
On paired boards, 87s is usually weak if it doesn't hit a full house. A small bet can be made to test the waters, but fold if raised. If it hits trips e.g., 7xx, slow play or bet 1/2 pot. Avoid bluffing in multi-way pots.
Monotone board e.g. A♠8♠3♠
If it misses, usually fold. Be aware that opponents may hold a larger flush. If it hits a flush, can bet or check-raise, but avoid going all-in.
Specific matchup notes
MTT short-stack push/fold
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