It's not tampering to express interest in the front office personnel. That rule only applies to players.
I don't believe that Boston's, or any other teams', playoff position will impact any the interview process.
Retaining Gilman as AGM would almost be paramount for continuity's sake. If he left Smyl would be the only major link and that might be too much change too quickly.
Benning, McNab, and Joe Will (SJ AGM) would all be good choices IMHO. 2nd tier would be Hextall, Dudley, Brisbois, Gilman.
John Stevens and Mike Johnston to replace Torts and Sullivan, with Patty Quinn coming in as a Senior Advisor, and suddenly there is hope for the immediate future.