Direct to LAX would have to be someone that hubs in LAX. Delta has a hub there, I know you can direct from LA to CMH. Not sure if that flight continues to ATL though. Kayak.com says Alaska does it, I think it must be a code share with someone else.
Honestly, going via ORD, DEN, HOU, or ATL isn't that bad. Considering the 120 flights I have made this year, I am never bothered by a connection.