Amongst the lead story lines heading into the Boston Celtics game three matchup with the Altanta Hawks at the TD Garden on Friday night is the health of veteran guard Ray Allen, who has yet play in the series.

SB Nation Boston's Gethin Coolbaugh is on the scene at Thursday's Celtics practice, and passed along a handful of updates (via Twitter) about Allen's status for game 3.

Here are a few:

Doc Rivers says Ray Allen biked yesterday, has "a better shot" of playing in Game 3. #Celtics #Hawks #NBA

— Gethin Coolbaugh (@GethinCoolbaugh) May 3, 2012

Ray Allen says he "likes the way he feels right now" #Celtics#Hawks #NBA @celticsblog

— Gethin Coolbaugh (@GethinCoolbaugh) May 3, 2012

And finally:

Ray Allen says he definitely is practicing today. Says he's excited about it. #Celtics #Hawks #NBA @celticsblog

— Gethin Coolbaugh (@GethinCoolbaugh) May 3, 2012

For 2012 NBA Playoffs news, follow our stream. For Celtics coverage, visit our team page and CelticsBlog. Visit Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta for Hawks coverage.