So I'm trying to go LAX-ZRH then intra-europe travel, then LHR-LAX. I think I'm going to splurge and book one, or both, ways in J. Right now on one award ticket I can only go LAX-JFK-ZRH on a 762 763 respectively since there is no availability on BA for the LHR-ZRH (which would allow me to take the LAX-LHR on the 77w). So my question is this

I could book LAX-LHR on the award and just pay for coach for the LHR-ZRH (~$170) but then I get in 7PM versus 8AM (so I lose a day).
What would you guys do? Spend the $170 extra and potentially lose a day (I could maybe just fly in a day sooner) just to take the 77W?

I'm considering flying J back (although it's obviously a day flight) which would definitely be on the 77W, would that change your answer?

Curious to hear your input on this (obviously) big decision