Wiktionary
vb. 1 (context idiomatic English) To seek ways to advance one's self-interest, especially by making choices in a calculating or crafty manner; to scheme. 2 (context sports of a defensive player or goaltender English) 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. 3 (context sports of an offensive player English) 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.
Usage examples of "play the angles".
Maybe that was a little unfair, but saying that Elmer Chambers knew how to play the angles was definitely not unfair.
Anyway, we try to play the angles when it comes to saving our peoples lives, and Sputnik was equipped with a new escape program.