Defoliation

Yes, my rule of thumb is only stuff that covers other growth and no more than 25% 1 a week

Why, what for? The plant "knows" what it is doing, yet people think they know better! Besides, if the plant would not need those leaves, it would not grow them in the first place! Defoliation is not an essential "technique" when growing cannabis. Unless you are battling with uncontrollable, extremely high humidity, I see no reason as to why defoliation would ever be needed.

You can carefully cut a few leafs. But I wouldnt do to much before it's finished with the stretch.

Personally I would let it get a little bigger/bushier first. You're at that critical point in an auto where it generally starts to think about flowering and stretch like crazy. A serious stunting at this point will lead to a dwarf plant if you overdo it. If needed, I'd defol after most of your stretch is done.

You can.