Let me give another example of something done on purpose that will backfire on the defense: the list of ten reasons for doubt. It's snappy, it's quick, it probably came from Trump himself -- but all they've done is give the prosecution ten memorable items to easily shoot down.
The prosecution is not going to be able to shoot the GLOAT reference down.
Yeah, even in the unlikely event that Trump does get acquitted, it won’t be because of that really dumb “GLOAT” line. Speaking as a defense attorney - I.e. someone who actually does this for a living - defensive closing argument was pretty unimpressive. It wasn’t awful, but it was a wasted opportunity and is unlikely to change anyone’s mind. The curative instruction could definitely backfire on the defense though. Screwing up your closing statement badly enough that the judge needs to issue curative instructions is not a good ending note.