Great Report
I have made that drive more than once in the opposite. In my earlier trips (mid 80's) we would go for 7 to 8 days. As a way of breaking up the monotony, we would go to LA or San Diego for 2 days. Being from New England seeing the desert for the first time was breathtaking in a sense that is so different from Boston. So it was actually exciting both ways, eager to see the sights of LA and then eager to get back to the action. We would of course stop at Whiskey Pete's. I do agree that it would be a long drive back if I lived in LA.
My record from Dodger Stadium to the Vegas is 3hrs and 46 mins.
I witness the craziest thing ever on the way back to Vegas. The Cal Hwy Patrol was ahead of the traffic pulling us along at 85 mph. I guess they do that to keep the traffic moving.