[Octopus]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
I like.

The turn is the only question. If we knew our opponents were unlikely to check-raise, we might bet in order to get a free showdown. You provided no reads to that effect, so I am taking the free card.

[/ QUOTE ]

I don't understand. How does betting on the turn give you a free showdown?

[/ QUOTE ]

If we check the turn, we will have to call a bet on the river. A bet here has the benefit that, if we are behind, we might draw out. The call on the river lacks this benefit. In short, a bet here costs less than a call on the river. So a checked through river isn't a "free showdown", but it is cheaper. That was my thinking anyway. (Also, if we are ahead, people might fold, incorrectly, as it turns out. But either way, their folding is good.)