Set against the world of high stakes poker, DEAL follows the story of Alex Stillman (Bret Harrison), a cocky, hotshot, card-playing senior at Yale University. Alex dreams of becoming a professional Texas Hold'em poker player but does not yet have the skill to master the table. Fortunately for him, a chance encounter introduces Alex toretired poker legend, Tommy Vinson (Burt Reynolds). Tommy was at thetop of his game twenty years ago but gave it all up in order to savehis family.

Upon meeting Alex, Tommy realizes he can regain his own self-confidence, pride and a poker championship title by turning Alex intohis protege. The two pair up and master every tournament they enter.The winning streak and friendship between the two is eventuallythwarted by the interference of a Las Vegas call girl, Michelle(Shannon Elizabeth). The pair eventually part ways and separatelyprepare for the World Poker Tour. Only one will take home thechampionship title.