but some swear by Westside-style conjugate—
I haven't looked at current popular programming but my impression ks that Westside conjugate is as good as dead in the raw powerlifting world, but is there even any other kind now?
Do you know any top lifters now doing conjugate? Some Westside guys didn't even really do any deads apart from comps.
I have never competed in powerlifting, though surrounded by them, but I just suggest:
Monday: squats
Wednesday: bench
Friday: deads
Doing something like what BB suggested.

Fairly brief assistance after the main lifts. I know some top guys a few years back didn't do much other than the comp lifts, just honing technique and not flopping around doing endless variations.
Who's that guy, Tucherer? I thought he had some good insights years back but don't know what he's doing now.
Wendler's 5/3/1 many thought was complete shit.