Blocker

A card you hold that makes certain opponent hands less likely.

Definition

A blocker is a card in your hand that reduces the number of opponent combos for certain strong hands or draws.

Key points

  • Blockers change range weights by removing combos (card removal).
  • They matter most on boards where certain nut combos are key.
  • Good bluffs often use blockers to reduce villain’s continuing range.

Common misconceptions

Myth

Blockers guarantee my bluff works.

Reality

They only shift probabilities; opponents can still have strong hands.

Myth

Any ace is a good blocker.

Reality

It depends on which value hands you’re targeting.

Back to Glossary