Originally Posted by Yug

Roots take up moisture, among other things, and leaves lose moisture. If recently removed from a larger plant, moisture from that source is lost until the plant recovers and regrows its own roots. Moisture loss from the leaves, and lack of moisture being absorbed by damaged roots will continue for a while. Removing most or all of the leaves will reduce the moisture loss, and give the plant some time to adjust. Until that is done, you will get droopy leaves, and possibly lose the entire plant. Liberal watering does little good until the roots recover.