What are some strategies for playing pocket pairs in ICM?

[Mike_25]

When holding two of the same card, called a pocket pair, in Ipodial Chip Model (ICM) tournaments,be careful before calling pre-flop raises. Competing for the pot early can cost you chips if you miss your pair.Only call with strong starting hands like AA, KK and QQ from early positions.From middle positions,wait for good potentialreward compared to the risk. With blinds rising, defend your big blinds selectively.Go with the odds and play your pair safely to reach the money positions. Then,you can scheme for the trophy.

 

[Crazy_winner]

To choose the post-flop approach for your pocket pairs, take into account the stack per ratio. If the SPR is low, you might choose a simpler approach and try to place all of your chips in the middle. If the SPR is larger, you might want to play more sensibly, employ pot management techniques, and search for value in smaller bets or raises.

 

[Lazza]

At the table, locate any short stacks and take advantage of their ICM pressure. If you are aggressive, they might be more likely to fold, giving you the opportunity to build up chips without facing off against anyone. Use ICM calculators or software as well to help you make the best choices possible.

 

[swift]

i think Position is always important in poker, but it's especially important when playing pocket pairs. Look for spots to raise pre-flop and take control of the hand when you have position, especially against opponents with smaller stacks who may be reluctant to play pots out of position.