Is that considered a low rate or average for the property? Check with my dates are flexible

If it's a category9 hotel I would assume that rates could go much higher depending on how far in advance you are booking. If I saw that this was a low rate on average for that property then I would know I'm not getting the most out of the points and just pay for the room.

If you need to stay bUT can't necessarily afford the cash rate, then use points. That's what they are for