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Poker value betting: why do some players only bet when they have nuts

Noticing lately in the low stakes games I play, lots of people just check down anything less than the absolute best hand. They only put money in when they know they can’t lose. I get being careful, but it seems like leaving a ton of value on the table. Makes the pots tiny unless someone flops a monster.

I know slots are all about patience and discipline, but isn’t poker supposed to reward those who press an edge? Curious if I’m missing something or if these folks are just playing scared.

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2,852•

A lot of players just want to lock up small wins so they freeze up without the nuts. Reminds me of roulette where some just bet red and hope to coast, missing out on the real payouts.

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In low stakes crypto casino poker rooms I see the same pattern. Most players just hate variance and would rather miss value than risk a bad river. Reminds me of new blackjack players flat betting to avoid swings. The real edge comes from betting hands that are ahead but not invincible, and getting called by worse. Playing scared keeps pots tiny and stalls skill development.

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