How to Play Pocket Kings (Many Players Get This Wrong)

Sneak peek from Lab 2.0, coming to Upswing Poker on September 8th. Register for early access here.

The world's best poker coach, Uri Peleg, walks you through numerous hand examples and shares key insights for playing Pocket Kings. He positions the question "how should you play pocket kings" as a philosophical one that touches deep into something beautiful about the game of poker.

View the written version of this episode here.

00:00 The Philosophy of Playing Pocket Kings

02:56 Reevaluating Hand Strength Post-Flop

05:46 Overview of Lab 2.0 and Learning Path

06:13 Pot Control with Marginal Boards

08:50 Maximizing Value Against Loose Opponents

09:50 Playing Strong Hands on Dynamic Boards

In this poker strategy podcast, world-class coach Uri Peleg takes you deep into the art of playing Pocket Kings — one of the most exciting yet misunderstood hands in No-Limit Hold'em. Pulled from Upswing Poker's Lab 2.0 course, this episode blends philosophy, strategy, and real hand breakdowns to show why Kings, while a preflop powerhouse, require constant reevaluation once the flop hits. Uri explores scenarios against skilled opponents, revealing how the board texture, betting patterns, and player tendencies can transform a monster hand into a marginal bluff-catcher — or the nuts into a value-shoving machine.

Listeners will follow along as Uri navigates dream flops, dangerous turns, and tricky rivers, explaining when to push for big pots, when to pot-control, and when to get out of the way. You'll hear hands where Kings crush opponents for massive stacks, as well as spots where restraint saves your tournament life or bankroll. Along the way, Uri drops mindset gems, reminding players to shed emotional attachment to "premium" hands and focus on situational value instead.

This poker strategy podcast also introduces you to the Lab 2.0 learning path, designed to meet players at their current skill level and guide them toward mastery through tailored lessons. Whether you're a beginner hoping to avoid common pitfalls or an experienced grinder looking to sharpen your decision-making, this poker strategy podcast will arm you with both the technical skills and mental discipline to handle Kings — and countless other hands — with confidence. If you're serious about improving your game, this poker strategy podcast is your ticket to turning knowledge into profit.