Truth be told, LAX isn't so bad anymore, with the new TBIT building open. But you can't get away with having to deal with claiming your boxes at LAX, going through C&I, then having to walk over to T4 for your flight to BOS.

So while I wouldn't avoid LAX if you're leaving the US, coming into the US it's best just to get to your final destination as your first point of entry.

Another tip: Try to enjoy Hong Kong for one night. I had a 23 hour connection at HKG once, and my bags still made it onto my connecting flight the next day. Have had shorter (but still overnight) connections, and never have had a problem.