IMHO the only reason to transit ORD is if you're going to the Northeast US/Eastern Canada flying Y/PE.
That way you stay on NZ product for the majority of your trip, which compared to AC/UA domestic Y is far more comfortable (even in the 9 abreast 789)
If you're in J, fly cross country on UA/AC J then outbound via SFO/LAX, whichever has the best connection - lounges are only good if you've got unavoidably long layovers. Yeah it's nice to shower but I'd rather just get there with the least overall travel time.