What happened: The basket reduced a five-point gap to one possession. The trailing side still needed a stop to preserve a chance to tie or win.
Why it matters: The shot kept the game undecided into the closing possession. A two would have tied the score, while another 3-pointer could have taken the lead.
By the numbers: The 3-pointer moved the score from 79-74 to 79-77, cutting the deficit from five points to two.
What to watch: The closing possession and final result will determine whether Howard's shot becomes a turning point or a late answer.