What Does Brick Mean in Poker?
A community card that appears to have little impact on the strength of players’ hands, often because it does not complete any draws or significantly improve the hands in play. It’s important to note that a brick can sometimes be used strategically to maintain pressure on opponents if the board is favorable to your range. Finding opportunities to play poker with a strong understanding of these dynamics can be advantageous.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Brick
During gameplay, when a community card is revealed that does not seem to change the current dynamic, you might hear players refer to it as a ‘brick’. This can happen on the turn or river when the card does not help any potential draws and is perceived as neutral.
In-Game Example
Imagine you’re holding AK, and the board is 952. The turn comes 3, which doesn’t complete any flushes or straights. In this scenario, the turn card could be considered a ‘brick’.
Strategy / Tips
- Best Practice: Recognize brick cards to adjust your betting strategy, maintaining pressure if the board remains favorable to your range.
- Common Mistake: Overestimating the impact of a brick, leading to unnecessary caution or aggression.
- Pro Tips: Use bricks to your advantage by betting aggressively when your perceived range is strong. Online, observe timing tells, while live play may offer physical reactions.
Alternative Names
Blank, Dud
FAQs
Q: Can a brick ever change the outcome of a hand?
A: Yes, while bricks generally do not complete draws, they can sometimes affect the perceived strength of a player’s range or influence betting strategies.
