WSOP Final Table Delayed for TV

As you have probably heard, the World Series of Poker (WSOP) main event final table will be delayed until November. The Tournament plays down to the final table as usual, then everyone gets paid for 9th place and they restart it in November to coincide with ESPN's coverage. That way the final table is played out as close to live as possible.

The idea is to build buzz, ratings, and advertising revenue. Overall I think I like it. Certainly, live events generate more excitement and it seems to be a win-win situation for all parties. The Players Committee endorsed it through Daniel Negreanu.

Here is the Full WSOP Announcement.

Despite my approval, here are some random thoughts I came up with:

If it catches on, Vegas books may have an event to compare to Superbowl.

Is there now a waiver: no one who is six months pregnant can play the ME?

Sucks if you sneak into the final table with almost no chips. Wait 3 months to go all in on the first hand and get paid $0.

How much insurance does ESPN have on Norman Chad & Lon Mcheren?

I sense another reality show (groan).

Take it back a few: Moneymaker doesn't win, Raymer likely doesn't win, Gold has to change his style (because he gets warned) and doesn't win.

Huge, make that HUGE, advantage to the pro who makes the final table. Having had their hole cards exposed, amateurs are going to have to hire a coach, lawyer, publicist and bodyguard, develop a new game in 3 months, learn to hide any tells, study their opponents, sign contracts, play other events for practise, give out interviews, quit or arrange leave from their job, keep the family happy, etc.