Delayed Turn Bet

Overview

The delayed turn bet is a tactical play used primarily in no-limit hold'em and pot-limit Omaha. Instead of betting the flop when holding a strong hand or a draw, the player defers the bet to the turn. This can be effective against aggressive opponents who will bet the flop when checked to, or against passive players who might call a flop bet but fold to a turn bet.

Purpose and Scenarios

1. Inducing Action: By checking the flop with a strong hand (e.g., top pair or a set), a player allows the opponent to bet, then either check-raise or call to set up a turn bet. This can build a larger pot than a direct flop bet.

2. Pot Control: When holding a marginal hand, checking the flop can keep the pot small, then a delayed turn bet can narrow the opponent's range or take down the pot if the turn doesn't improve the opponent.

3. Bluffing: A delayed turn bet can represent a slow-played strong hand, causing opponents to fold. For example, if the flop is dry and the opponent checks behind, a bet on the turn often looks credible.

4. Exploiting Opponent Tendencies: Against a player who autobets when checked to, the delayed turn bet (as a check-raise or check-call followed by a lead) can be highly profitable.

Typical Lines

• Check-call flop, bet turn: Common with draws or medium-strength hands. The flop call suggests weakness, so the turn bet may get folds from hands that would have called a flop bet.
• Check-raise flop, bet turn: More aggressive; usually indicates a strong hand. The check-raise on the flop is not a delayed bet, but the subsequent turn bet continues the pressure.
• Check-flop, lead turn (after opponent checks): Known as a “float” when done with air, but with a made hand it's a disguised value bet.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages:

• Can induce bluffs from opponents.
• Provides more information about opponent's hand strength.
• May extract extra bets from opponents who would have folded to a flop bet.

Disadvantages:

• Gives free cards to opponents, potentially allowing them to outdraw.
• May miss value if the opponent would have called a flop bet but folds to a turn bet.
• Can be costly if the opponent also slow-plays a stronger hand.

Example

Hero has A♠K♠ on a K♦9♣2♥ flop. Hero checks in position. Villain bets half pot. Hero calls. Turn is 5♦. Hero bets 75% pot. This turn bet represents a strong king or better, and Villain may fold a weaker king or a bluff.

Conclusion

The delayed turn bet is a versatile tool in a poker player's arsenal. It should be used thoughtfully based on opponent tendencies and board texture. When applied correctly, it can increase win rate by improving pot control and deception.