HID grower turned LED grower 3 years now, have question about defoliation (final trim) just before final flush.

Because of light penetration issues with 2 LEDS (650wts) covering 4 plants that vegged 9 weeks, how important is it to leave as many leafs on plants when their this close to harvest ? 2 and a half weeks away.

Have good top growth only. All 4 plants topped once but LEDS are not penetrating down to lower growth even with side CFL lighting added. Final trim expected to clear upper leaf growth to allow lower budsites to get light. Will this diminish bud size for upper growth ?

Plants are moved daily out to direct sunlight for 6 hours, then back in under LED's for reminder of light on period, so no screen can be used to spread out canopy. Can not resist 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for plants, too tempting and It's free.

How much defoliation, leaf removal can these plants handle and still continue productive overall growth this late in grow ?

Photos show before and after final trim. Stumped on this issue, any suggestions appreciated. Thanks kindly.