David Ortiz to Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum: ‘You’re my dog’

Red Sox great David Ortiz explained why he’s such a fan of Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum.

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum has accomplished plenty in his young career. But playing beneath the banners that hang in TD Garden serves as a reminder that the fans in Boston expect more than All-Star nods and individual accolades. Championships are the ultimate currency in the Hub.

Few people know about Boston’s rabid sports culture quite like former Red Sox great David Ortiz. The Hall of Fame designated hitter won three championships with the Sox, helping the club end an 86-year title drought and cementing himself as Boston sports royalty in the process. And while Tatum might understand the history and greatness that motivate fans, Ortiz has lived it. Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and this current crop of Celtics players have a lot of work to do to reach those same heights and lofty expectations.

According to Ortiz, however, that time will come. Ortiz recently spoke with NBC Sports Boston about Tatum and why he’s such a supporter of Boston’s rising star.

“First of all, I might be his number one fan in all of Boston,” Ortiz said. “I love Jayson.