Niiaz Hotshot's Preflop Strategy Guide for Cash Games

Niiaz Hotshot recently shared his updated preflop strategy for cash games, emphasizing the importance of adapting to different situations and opponents. One of his key recommendations is to use a raise size of 3 bb, as it has been shown to work better than other sizes. This is because players are more likely to make mistakes with this size, allowing for better exploitation.

Hotshot also suggests using smaller 4-bet sizes. This approach makes it easier to fold hands when necessary, especially against tight players. For example, with a smaller 4-bet size, you can more easily fold AK if you suspect your opponent has a stronger hand.

Another crucial aspect of preflop play is adjusting to the rake in the game. Hotshot advises that at lower rake levels, you should play more hands and focus on postflop play. Conversely, at higher rake levels, it's better to 3-bet more and try to win the pot preflop. This strategy helps mitigate the impact of the rake on your overall win rate.

Hotshot also emphasizes the importance of adjusting your preflop range based on your opponents' tendencies. For example, against aggressive players who frequently 3-bet, you should tighten your range to avoid losing equity. On the other hand, against passive players or those who limp frequently, you can widen your range to include more hands.

To determine which hands to include in your preflop range, Hotshot recommends using tools like GTO Wizard. This tool helps you identify hands that have a positive expected value (EV) and can be included in your range. For example, hands like KJo, which have a low EV, can be cut from your range in certain situations.

When isolating from the MP position, Hotshot suggests using a 25% range. This range includes hands that are strong enough to isolate but not so strong that you risk losing equity against a tight opponent. For example, hands like QJ, J9, and 98 can be included in this range.

From the SB position, Hotshot advises using a wider range, including hands like K9 and Q9. This is because the SB position is very exploitable, and you can often get away with playing a wider range of hands. Additionally, against passive players on the BB, you can often steal the blinds with a wider range.

Finally, when 3-betting on the BB, Hotshot recommends using a polar range with a larger size. This approach helps generate fold equity and allows you to win the pot preflop more often. For example, with a polar range, you can 3-bet with hands like AA, KK, QQ, JJ, and AK, which have a high fold equity against a wide range of hands.