I don't think it's that obvious. For a novice player, it's probably best to throw away because you can get in a lot of trouble if a flop like Q106 comes down, and someone else calls with Q10. However - it does have value. What I think is most important about playing QJ UTG is knowing when you're beat, and playing it cautiously. But if you can see a cheap flop, you're probably best to call. Here's an example:
At a SNG with 5 remaining, all loose players, blinds at 50-100, your stack is 3300. You get QJ UTG. Calling only costs you 3% of your stack, and if you run into any raises, you can fold comfortably. However, a call from first position can be a scary thing, so people might be less likely to raise in that situation. Now if a flop like Q 9 4 comes down, you can bet at it, watching only for low pairs like 44 that might have called and made a set.
QJ can be very valuable, however, when a flop like AK10 comes. The Arag or KJ that called you will keep calling you all the way down to the river - and pay you off big when they do. Watch out if you decide to raise with it, because KQ and AQ might just call you and kick you right off your top pair for a lot of chips.
Last edited by KillTheTables; 08-14-2006 at 06:13 PM.
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