L.A. Poker Classic 2014: High Stakes and Big Names

The L.A. Poker Classic tournament took place from March 1 to 6, 2014, at the Commerce Casino in California. The buy-in for the tournament was $10,000, with $400 going to the rake. The tournament structure was developed by Matt Savage, who also served as the tournament director.

The tournament featured a 6-max format starting with 36 players. The first day of the tournament saw 534 players, a slight decrease from the 517 players the previous year. This event was the first major tournament after most American players received their funds from Full Tilt following Black Friday.

Antonio Esfandiari made a notable hand on the first day, collecting a set of threes against two opponents' flush draws. Scott Blackman was the chip leader at the end of the second day with 190,300 chips. Phil Ivey was eliminated from the tournament on the second day after a poor hand. Phil Galdfond was eliminated on the second day after a tough hand against Larry Ormson. Scott Blackman continued to lead the tournament on the third day with 380,000 chips. Eric Seidel was one of the first players to bust out of the money on the third day. Daniel Negreanu was eliminated on the third day after a tough hand against an opponent who made a straight. Chris Murrman increased his stack to 135 big blinds after a successful all-in move against John Hulette. Gordon Vayo became the bubble boy, finishing in 64th place.