In that case you definitely need to apply or you will lose your preference point (I think that rule only applies to preference and not bonus points so they should be safe,
@8andcounting probably knows). So you have to decide if you buy another pref point when you apply and have a good chance of drawing this year, or apply without getting another point, you won't draw and then go into 2027 draw with 2 points and most likely draw then. Worst case scenario you don't draw with 2 and have to wait until 2028 and be guaranteed with 3 points. Unless you go the outfitter route you won't be able to have 3 points for 2027.