Lag

An aggressive playing style characterised by a player participating in many hands and frequently making small raises in order to outsmart opponents.

What is LAG? 

When playing poker, understanding different player types is vital as their strategies can vary significantly. One classic player type is the Loose Aggressive (LAG) player. LAG players tend to play a wide range of hands preflop and rarely fold (the “loose” aspect), while also betting and raising more frequently than the average player (the “aggressive” aspect). 

A LAG strategy can be effective in both cash games and tournaments across all poker variants, particularly in situations where opponents are overly tight. The aggressive betting style often compels opponents to make mistakes, while the broad range of hands they play contributes to their unpredictability. 

However, adopting a LAG style comes with inherent risks. Successful execution requires a deep understanding of poker strategy and the ability to read opponents effectively. If a LAG player lacks these skills, they may find themselves losing chips rapidly due to their high-volatility approach. Balancing aggression with caution is key to maximising the effectiveness of a LAG strategy.