play the angles

verb3

1. •
   To seek ways to advance one's self-interest, especially by making choices in a calculating or crafty manner; to scheme.

   • In a town where everybody plays the angles and wholesomeness is something of an aberration, Julie Andrews, 31, is tolerated as a delightful kook. — 1966
2. •
   In a game which involves control of a moving object, such as a ball or puck, to allow for angular movements of the object caused by bounces, rebounds, ricochets, etc. or to carefully guard the corners of the goal, net, or other scoring target.

   • Stengel also had trouble with balls bouncing off the outfield fences. . . . "If you want somebody to play the angles," the frustrated rookie replied, "why don't you hire a pool player?" — 1996
3. •
   In a game which involves control of a moving object, such as a ball or puck, to seek scoring opportunities by advancing on or shooting at the scoring target in an angular manner across the field of play.

   • McEnroe was broken again in the sixth game, making three uncharacteristic errors. His volleys lacked crispness. Instead of playing the angles, he was hitting them right back to Mayotte. — 1987