What is an "Octopus Knight?" - Freddy Dear Freddy: I'm generally not the type who likes to pat himself on the back (yeah, right!?) However, from my recollection, the term "Octopus Knight" was first used by Ex-World Champion GM Mikhail Botvinnik in the late 60's when he annotated a game played by world contender GM Mikhail Tal (one of my greatest heros). The circumstance on the board allowed Tal's knight to create 4 different threats simultaneously! A perfect example of this may be observed in my recent encounter with SC Expert Keith Eubanks. (See Game 0727) It is true that in time trouble, Black missed the equalizer on move 29 when he should have played 29... Qe5!=+ snapping the e-pawn and defending the mate whereupon White would be required to play 30 c3 and attempt to Draw a pawn down R & P ending?! Instead, White was able to recoup his position with 30 Rd7! This is where Black played 31... Rf8? which allowed 32 Ne6!! - "the terrifying Octopus!" Observe the 4 tentacles attacking all 4 of Black's remaining pieces! This move could not be defended. A rare configuration, and a satisfying win. NM Leland Fuerstman