Do second-degree connections actually show anything about Kutcher and Epstein?

Not much by themselves. A friend-of-a-friend link can be a reason to check a claim, but it does not show that the people knew each other, were involved in the same activity, or had knowledge of wrongdoing. Each link in the chain needs its own reliable support and context.

I’d separate the claims into a simple timeline: who is said to have met whom, when, and what document or reporting supports that specific connection. Then look for direct evidence relevant to the allegation. If the case depends on a long chain of partnerships, acquaintances, and inferred motives, the chain is doing more work than the evidence.

There’s a big difference between mapping a network and proving a conspiracy. People can share investors, advisers, or social circles without sharing plans or knowledge. I’d be wary of treating a dense-looking diagram as proof, especially when the links vary from documented contact to speculation.