Heat trades guard Chris Quinn to New Jersey

The Miami Heat traded point guard Chris Quinn to the New Jersey Nets, a move that could presage Rafer Alston’s return to South Florida.

Alston agreed to a buyout with the Nets, and two people familiar with the situation told the Associated Press that the guard is hoping to sign with the Heat later this week. If Alston clears waivers Thursday at 6 p.m., he could sign with any team.

The Heat will get a second-round pick in 2012. Miami could get New Jersey’s second-round choice this year, provided it’s not between picks 31-50.

Etc.

Cleveland backup forward Jamario Moon is expected to miss at least three weeks because of a left abdominal strain. . . . The Philadelphia 76ers guaranteed the remainder of Allen Iverson’s prorated one-year, $1.3-million contract for the rest of the season. . . . The NBA denied the Dallas Mavericks’ protest of a 116-108 overtime loss to the Houston Rockets on Dec. 18.

-- associated Press