Chris, In your climate right now, I would think it is quite warm. If you have been experiencing a lot of rainfall, then you would want to make sure that the plant is not too wet.
If they get constant rain water and are not allowed to dry back a bit, this is not good either.
If it was just a matter of leaves being shed from natural process, then pruning would not hurt this plant.
I know that many growers keep them under cover, especially during monsoon season, but I do not know your weather.
Rick

Rick, what about those small buds? Do you think they may grow to bloom or would they just dry off?

They may reach maturity. How long have the buds been at the size shown and have they shown any change in size development.
If they are not becoming larger, then it is a possibility they may abort.

Your climate Chris and mine are so different and you are fortunate to have a long growing season. Almost all year round for you.

This plant has a really nice shape. It would not be necessary for you to prune and just see what happens with the buds.

Rick

Thanks for your goos suggestion Rick.