After our 2 games against CGY, during our 4 game stretch with VAN I think it would be wise to give Mike Smith those games off. 2 games for Kosk, 2 games for Stalock. As for the forwards, you keep 10 forwards in all the way through, however you sub in 1 taxi squad guy every other game, whilst giving Bouchard 7th D minutes, in the remaining 7 games, check taxi squad for the 7 forwards I would run. As Kharia & Kassian both are battling injuries, shut them both down for reg season, fit them in lineup come playoff time. This is the forwards lines I would launch:
Kahun - McDavid - Puljuarvi
RNH - Draisatil - Yamamoto
Ennis - McLeod - Archibald
X - Shore - X

As for defence, you used assets to acquire Kulikov, you play Kulikov. Lagesson & Russell although good in some stretches are inconsistent. Either 2 of those guys can slot in if a D needs maintenance day. As well, if injury recovery time allows for it, give Koekkoek a game or two on the left resting Nurse.

Home ice doesn't seem to be much of an advantage for this Covid playoff. I agree with you....get everyone ready for the playoffs.

Stealing the leafs ideas i see....

Last change will still be important. The small number of fans will help too I think.