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How the professionals would play 'BIG SLICK'

Even unsuited, Ace-King looks so promising that many poker players treat it as if its a true silver bullet - but here's a wake up call. Against just 1 other player, A-K is almost a 2/1 favourite to win the pot with the probability rating at 65%. However, your opposition only has to increase to 2 players and the win rate will drop to 47%. In simple terms, when there's more than just 1 other in the pot, A-K will lose more times than it wins. This is why the conventional play regarding A-K is to raise big pre-flop and push as many opponents out the hand as possible.
There is, however, a pretty strong arguement for resisting the temptation to raise and just calling instead because, simply, A-K is only a drawing hand. Until it gets help from the board, all it is is Ace high, with it trailing even the smallest pairs. Some pro's have stated they would rather have A-K than AA or KK due to the fact that sometimes you can make more money when you hit your hand and lose less when you miss.
If you're short stacked, A-K is a good opportunity to double up. On other occasions, proceed with caution. See the flop and , of course, fire away when another ace or king comes. If you come up against serious resistance, be prepared to fold your hand unless you have the goods.

Statistical reasons why NOT to get over excited with A-K
Probability of A-K making 1 pair when combined with table cards: 45.57%

Making 2 pair: 22.66%

Making three of a kind: 4.43%

Making a straight: 3.30%

Making a full house: 2.22%

Making a flush (AK unsuited): 1.96%

Making four of a kind: 0.13%

Making a straight flush: 0.01% and a Royal flush <0.01%

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