How useful do you find combinations ?

[AaronBrown]

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Is that directed at me or at allencoix?

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Sorry, it was directed at the original poster. I replied sloppily.

I think you and I are pretty close. If you're going to bet 88 preflop, you have to be happy with this flop. If you're not going to play it, you're not going to play anything without an 8 in it. The other player has to respect the possibility you have trips, so she can't push you around, meanwhile, you've got a good chance of a straight.

Personally, I'm inclined to stick a raise in here in no-limit. It might win me the pot, and with 38% chance of winning, it doesn't cost me a fortune. If I do hit my straight, and the other player also improves, I could get paid off big.