Backdoor
A backdoor in poker is a term that refers to a situation where a player needs two consecutive cards on the turn and river to complete a hand. This is often used to describe situations where a player has a small chance of completing a hand but ends up doing so by getting the right cards on the turn and river.
The Concept of Backdoor in Poker
A backdoor draw is a poker term that describes a situation where a player needs both the turn and river cards to complete a winning hand. It's not the ideal situation to be in, as the odds of completing a backdoor draw are usually quite low. However, when it does happen, it can result in a strong hand that can take down the pot.
Backdoor draws are most common in Texas Hold'em and Omaha, where there are multiple community cards dealt throughout the hand. This gives players multiple opportunities to complete a backdoor draw.
The Strategy Behind Backdoor
Although a backdoor draw is not a strong hand to start with, it can sometimes be a good idea to stay in the hand if the pot odds are right. For example, if there are a lot of players in the pot and it's not too expensive to call, it might be worth it to see if you can hit your backdoor draw.
However, a key point to remember is that backdoor draws should not be the main part of your poker strategy. They are more of a plan B, in case your original plan doesn't work out. Relying on backdoor draws too often can lead to losing chips quickly.
Examples of 'Backdoor' in Poker
For example, let's say you're playing Texas Hold'em and you're dealt an Ace of Hearts and King of Hearts. The flop comes down 2 of Hearts, 7 of Clubs, and Jack of Spades. At this point, you have a backdoor flush draw, meaning if the turn and river are both Hearts, you would have a flush.
- "I was dealt a pair of Kings and the flop was all low cards, but I still had a backdoor flush draw."
- "Even though my hand wasn't strong, I decided to call because I had a backdoor straight draw."
- "I was lucky and hit my backdoor flush on the river to win the hand."
What is a backdoor draw in poker?
A backdoor draw is when a player needs both the turn and river cards to complete a winning hand.
How likely is it to hit a backdoor draw?
It's relatively rare, as you need two specific cards to complete your hand.
Can I rely on backdoor draws to win?
It's not a good strategy to rely on backdoor draws, as they are uncertain and the odds are often against you.
What games can I use a backdoor draw in?
Backdoor draws are most common in Texas Hold'em and Omaha, but can technically occur in any poker variant where there are community cards.
What's the difference between a backdoor draw and a regular draw?
A regular draw is when you need just one more card to complete your hand, while a backdoor draw requires two more cards.
