AsNoriuanswered grow question 5 months ago i think you are even late a bit.
for lst you had to start earlier, now it will be hard to break dominance and most of branches will form around top , that brings problems in deciding how to fill all pot even and how to drag main around pots verge, but you still should bend her hard if you want to start. JUST DO ALL WARK BEFORE WATERING, that way plant will be lanky and it will prevent breaking/splits.
mainlining/ topping , i dont understand. for topping you are almost in perfect time, for mainline too late
dont think about any defoliation , thats not an option in veg time, tuck leaves, expose side shoots, care about plant daily and you can bushout plant really nice , flat and even.
green soft gardening wires works best for lst.