Does anyone know if there is a way we can get from LAX to Guangzhou, China (CAN) and back using VIPOW's to upgrade?

My wife and I are making a trip to Guangzhou, China next month, only AA choices from LAX seem to be China Eastern to Shanghai connecting to China Southern arriving in Guangzhou or Cathay Pacific to Hong Kong and connecting to Guangzhou from there (and yes, I know that given a choice Cathay is the way to go )

We may have access to VIPOW's but AA tells me we can't use them as neither of the above scenarios are on AA metal - any suggestions? (other than buying business class tickets on Cathay Pacific )