Basic 2-7 Triple Draw Strategy

Though the game play of this exciting poker variant is somewhat different to most poker games, the basic strategy of 2-7 triple draw follows similar ‘rules’ to many games.

The key factors are position at the table, quality starting hands and an ability to read and react to the tendencies of your opponents. This article looks at the basic strategies involved in winning 2-7 triple draw to help you profit at the tables today.

We start with a quick summary of the best showdown and starting hands in 2-7 triple draw. Next, the value of acting last, both in relation to the field and in relation to any pre-draw raiser is covered. Finally, the tendencies of your opponents are factored in to the discussion.

Best Hands

The lowest hand wins at showdown in 2-7 triple draw. Since aces are counted only as high cards and straights and flushes count against you, the best possible hand is 2-3-4-5-7.

This means that quality starting hands should contain a 2 and preferably a 7 as well as one or more other low cards. Since there are 3 ‘draws’ in which opponent’s are trying to hit a good low it is important that you start the hand with a strong holding.

Position

Position is important in any poker game. In 2-7 triple draw the importance of acting last increases for two reasons. Firstly you have limited information on your opponent’s hands. Only their bets and the number of cards that they draw are known to you. Secondly there are 3 draws each followed by a round of betting.

This allows you to build a picture of an opponent’s holding over a long period of time. The information gained can then give you a better idea about whether to bluff, raise or simply fold your hand.

While the dealer button means you act last after each draw it does not always give you the best possible position. If the player to your immediate right raised before the first draw and several other players call your position is less valuable.

This is due to the tendency of poker players to ‘check to the raiser’ after the draw. Now when the pre-draw raiser bets you will be sandwiched between this opponent and the rest of the field – any one of whom may be planning a check-raise with a good low hand.

Betting

You should bet strongly in 2-7 triple draw any time that you are drawing 1 (or more) fewer cards than an opponent. This is particularly true from good position. While on any individual hand a player drawing 2 or even 3 cards can get ‘lucky’ and hit a monster, your expectation over time is positive while a card ahead drawing to a solid hand.

Standing Pat

Standing pat with an vulnerable low (and 8-low or higher) can win a pot on later betting rounds when opponents fail to make a hand or draw a pair. Whether to play a medium strength low aggressively from position or to check behind drawing opponents will depend on their individual tendencies. When in this position ask your self whether this particular opponent is likely to call with a worse hand if you bet on the end.

Bluffing

Bluffing is difficult in 2-7 triple draw and should be used sparingly before the final draw. Once again good position and the style of your opponents are the key strategy factors.

With timid opponents drawing 2 or 3 cards ahead of you then drawing 1 and bluffing may be profitable. If your opponents are loose or capable of re-raising as a bluff then you should stick to drawing to strong hands, taking advantage of position by winning a bigger pot when you do make your hand.

To summarize, 2-7 triple draw strategy involves playing quality starting hands from good position. Bet when opponents are drawing more cards than you or you’re read on their betting patterns combined with draws tell you they may be weak.

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