Upvote:6
Rules in the US are usually the same for layover/transit and for entering the country so I don't think the fact that you would be transiting exempts you from any passport validity requirement.
In your case, however, it seems Hong Kong is on the list of countries whose citizens can enter the US even if their passport expires less than six months after their intended date of departure. It should therefore be possible to transit with your soon-to-expire passport (and a visa).
See also How long does my passport have to be valid for a layover in the US?