We have done the trip each way. We did the non-stop in coach and it was fine. No connection drama and it saves a a few hours. Aisle seat so that you can move about as you'd like.
When we went last November, we used BA miles on AA, so we had to stop in LA. The outbound had a tight connection (35 mins) but we were in F from JFK to LAX and didn't check bags, so we were fine.
Personally, I'll always take the non-stop over a connection. Unless you have a good long connection, you're not going to do much more that stretch your legs any way.
DH used to do the 17 hour non-stop to BKK in coach. Saved 7 hours, but that was brutal.
Have a great time in Hawaii!