[TomG]

The side pot is empty. In this case, getting the button to fold doesn't win the pot. We still have to win at showdown against the all-in small blind. So the idea of betting to generate "fold equity" in this situation is worth less than usual. However, we know that the button is often going to bet all-in if we check. Therefore, it remains the better option to lead out. The question then becomes, will a blocking more effectively handle the situation? The more I think about it, the more I like betting about 1/2 of button's remaining stack. There isn't much downside to this bet since if button wanted to go all-in, the blocking bet doesn't make it any easier for him to do so. A blocking bet effectively commits button to a showdown for a lesser price than betting the full pot.