Kevitz-Trajkovich defence

The Kevitz-Trajkovich Defence is a chess opening that begins with the moves:

1. d4 d62. c4 e5

This opening is named after the American chess player Isaac Kevitz and the Serbian chess player Dragoljub Trajković. It is a relatively uncommon opening at the top levels of chess, but it can be a solid choice for club players who want to avoid more mainstream openings.

Here are some reasons why to play the Kevitz-Trajkovich Defence:

1. Surprise factor: Since this opening is not very common, your opponent may not be familiar with its nuances, giving you an opportunity to catch them off guard.

2. Solid structure: The pawn on d6 supports the e5-pawn, which in turn supports the central pawn on d4. This creates a solid pawn structure that can be difficult for White to attack.

3. Flexibility: The Kevitz-Trajkovich Defence can be played against a variety of White's setups. It can be used to counter the Queen's Gambit, the London System, and other d4 openings.

However, there are also some reasons why to avoid the Kevitz-Trajkovich Defence:

1. Limited piece activity: Black's pieces can be somewhat cramped in the early stages of the game, making it difficult to develop them quickly and harmoniously.

2. Lack of theory: Since the Kevitz-Trajkovich Defence is not very common, there is less theoretical analysis available compared to more mainstream openings. This means that you may need to do more independent analysis and rely more on your own understanding of the position.

3. Potential for quick attacks: While the Kevitz-Trajkovich Defence is solid, it can also be a bit passive. If White plays aggressively and accurately, Black may find themselves under pressure in the early stages of the game.

In summary, the Kevitz-Trajkovich Defence can be a good choice for club players who want to try something different and avoid mainstream openings. However, it may not be the best choice for players who prefer openings with more established theory or who prioritize rapid piece development.