i would be getting rid of quite a few of those leaves for sure.
took off over 1.5 kilos from my grow does it hurt them, does not seem to, do buds grow through after defoliation i should say so.
there are some who say don't touch
as yours is the canopy becomes un penetrable, its a case of having to rather than wanting too.
Hydro grows produce far more leaf than soil.
like