thedoeanswered grow question a year ago if the 8 growth shoots are ready to ride solo, you could remove the leaves if you cant tuck them.
by that I mean they are developed and are already working on their 2nd node or so, if theyre too small it makes no sense.
check out my grow; I had the same idea for 8 tops! same guide
mine is probably not as bushy but youll get the idea.
especially if youre not limited on time then it will recover regardless.
just faster if they are ready to grow without need of those big fanleaves.