Modern Defense Averbakh System Deflection in Chess

In the Modern Defense Averbakh System, “deflection” is a tactical idea where Black lures or forces a key defender off a crucial square or line. The defining feature is often the Averbakh structure and piece placement that targets central/dark-square control, making one defender’s position critical to holding back a threat. A typical deflection move creates a temporary “gap” so White’s follow-up works immediately.