How to Deal with Table Talk

(Photo: Assopoker.com)

The issue of what is and isn't appropriate at the poker tables in terms of table talk took center stage during the 2016 WSOP Main Event.

The focus of the controversy was directed toward William Kassouf, whose continuous banter turned out to be an effective weapon against his opponents. If you were watching at home or have seen the video and you put yourself in the camp of those who found Kassouf to be extremely annoying, you certainly are not alone.

Table Talk is not Going Away

Let's face it. Table talk will never be completely banished, nor should it. Poker is a social game and is made to be fun, and that includes talking to each other at the table.

What, then, is the best way to effectively deal with the talk of other players when you don't necessarily care to hear what they have to say? How best to defend against the psychological warfare and mind games of the William Kassoufs of the world?

Ask Alec

Alec Torelli covers that subject quite well in an "Ask Alec" video, informing his viewers that its best to respond to players who are trying to get under your skin in a way that's "conducive and comfortable for your personality." However, be forewarned that if your personality and inclination is to haul off and smack a Kassouf-like player who rambles on incessantly, though it may be well-deserved, it is not the best response.

Torelli mentions playing the game on your own terms and not on the terms of that chatty opponent who is aiming to get an edge. Keep in mind that whatever your response may be, whether said or left unsaid, is information that the talkative player is trying to glom from you to further his or her aim of separating you from your chips.

In other words, be cognizant of your words, actions, and table image because the entire table - not only the motormouth - are watching. This same tip was also mentioned by Daniel Negreanu in a recent YouTube video that centered upon how best to play the early stages of tournaments.

Stick to the Game Plan

Another piece of advice from Alec is to not take anything said by your opponents personally. It can cause you to deviate from your game plan as your anger and blood pressure rise, which is likely the exact effect that the gabby player was hoping for.

Torelli says to "focus on driving your own car straight and not really worry too much about the other cars around you" with regard to the proper approach toward annoying and incessant table talk.