Connectors

Connectors are two cards of consecutive rank, such as 8-7 or J-T. These hands have the potential to make straights and can be powerful when played correctly, especially when suited. The term most commonly refers to hole cards in Texas Hold'em, though it applies to any poker variant.

Key Points

  • Consecutive ranks
  • Straight potential
  • Position important
  • Stack depth crucial

Types of Connectors

  • Suited Connectors:
    • Same suit cards
    • Flush potential
    • Higher playability
    • Implied odds hands
  • Offsuit Connectors:
    • Different suit cards
    • Straight only
    • Position dependent
    • Stack depth needed

Strategic Considerations

  • Position Impact:
    • Late position better
    • Fold early position
    • Steal potential
    • Post-flop play
  • Stack Depth:
    • Deep stacks preferred
    • Implied odds needed
    • 100BB minimum
    • Set mining analogy

Example Scenarios

Suited Connectors: 9♥8♥ in late position with deep stacks. Call a raise with position and implied odds.

Offsuit Connectors: T♠9♣ in the big blind facing a small raise. Call with good pot odds and positional disadvantage.

Playing Guidelines

  • Preflop Play:
    • Position dependent
    • Stack consideration
    • Opposition type
    • Tournament stage
  • Postflop Play:
    • Draw assessment
    • Pot size control
    • Continuation betting
    • Board texture

Common Mistakes

  • Overvaluing offsuit
  • Poor position play
  • Stack depth ignorance
  • Draw chasing
  • Pot odds errors
  • Overaggression

Advanced Concepts

  • Range Construction:
    • Position ranges
    • Stack depth impact
    • Game type adjustment
    • Opposition consideration
  • Implied Odds:
    • Stack depth analysis
    • Opponent tendencies
    • Position leverage
    • Hand disguise

Game Format Considerations

  • Cash Games:
    • Deep stack play
    • Implied odds focus
    • Position emphasis
    • Regular dynamics
  • Tournaments:
    • Stack preservation
    • ICM implications
    • Stage consideration
    • Pressure spots

Connectors are versatile hands that require careful consideration of position, stack depth, and opponent tendencies. While they can be very profitable in the right situations, they should be played selectively and with a clear understanding of post-flop implications. Success with connectors comes from proper hand selection, positional awareness, and the ability to maximize value when hitting strong draws.